"Leadership Springfield is a truly amazing learning experience. As a native Springfieldian I thought I knew everything there was to know, but I was wrong! I highly recommend Leadership Springfield to anyone who wants to meet great new people, learn more about Springfield’s history and prepare to play an active role in Springfield’s future."

-Jane Patterson, president/owner, HomeStyle Ltd., Class XIX

Message from the president


Change is in the air!  As I thought about what message I wanted to send out to past, present and future Leadership Springfield graduates one of my favorite quotes by anthropologist Margaret Mead came to mind, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”  With that said, I believe that the past, present and future graduates of this organization are some of the very citizens in our community who can and will lead change. 

     Speaking of change, I recently reviewed the Leadership Springfield strategic plan and became keenly aware of just how much work needs to be accomplished if we are to make change and take Leadership Springfield to the next level.  Therefore, the first priority of the year is to increase community awareness of Leadership Springfield, enhance continuing education events, re-engage alumni, and continue to explore best practices in other leadership programs across the nation.  The second priority is to launch a new marketing campaign.   As the successful Springfield on Board fundraising project came to an end and the Committee for the Future began to explore how to effectively and efficiently use those funds, ideas for a daring and innovative campaign surfaced.  All I can say is stay tuned for something bold!

   I encourage you to become familiar with the new website and to take a moment to personally update your profile information.  Again, look for many exciting changes in the coming months.  Contact Kim Everest at 862-5567 or kim(at)springfieldchamber.com and get involved now.  It’s going to be an exciting year!

 

Kathy Christy

President, Leadership Springfield