Many people are familiar with the Carroll County Leadership Institute, but may not be aware there is a similar statewide program. For the past 36 years, Leadership Iowa has brought together Iowan’s from all walks of life and from different businesses and industries. Director of Programs for Leadership Iowa’s parent organization, the Iowa Association of Business and Industry Foundation (ABI), Jessi Steward, says that about 40 members come together for one session a month in different locations across the state over an eight-month period.
The program inherently focuses on issues awareness, but the leadership component comes out through the individuals involved and networking done.
One of those individuals is Carroll Farm Bureau Financial Services Agent, Jeff Dentlinger. He says he enjoys the mix of personalities, interests and careers in the class. He adds it really reminds him of the local leadership institute, but brings it up to the Iowa level.
This resonated deeply with Dentlinger because of his role with Farm Bureau. He says they are hands-on when disasters strike and their livelihoods—between insurance, financials and protecting people’s futures—ties in closely with Leadership Iowa and in knowing the right people. Every year the schedule encompasses all regions of Iowa, and the group will be spending two days in Carroll this May. Steward says this will be the last time the group will meet in this way, with a focus on economic development and community vitality.
They will also travel to a variety of locations to view revitalization projects, discuss place-making and workforce issues. Dentlinger says having grown up in the Halbur area, he feels proud to be able to showcase the landmarks around his home. Steward says the group will gather again in June for graduation at the ABI annual conference in Ames, where 500 to 600 state leaders will be present. Plans are already underway for the next Leadership Iowa program, and the nomination process is open. Details on how to nominate yourself or someone else to take part can be found below.
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For more information on Leadership Iowa and how to nominate yourself or another person for the program:
Website: www.LeadershipIowa.com
Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeadershipIowa/
Twitter: @LeadershipIowa
