Monday, November 11, 2024 Feature:
Jeff Fink, Howard County Public School System
“Being part of Leadership Premier thus far has been an inspiring journey of discovery and connection. I joined because I wanted to gain deeper insights into our community and see a wider perspective of leadership in action. Each session has given us a firsthand look at impactful organizations and the challenges they tackle. Each experience has been hands-on and deeply meaningful.
I’m looking forward to continued opportunities to connect with other community leaders, understand complex issues, and contribute in ways that truly matter!”
Monday, November 18, 2024 Feature:
Yolanda Vazquez, Howard County State’s Attorney’s Office
“Leadership Howard County has been an incredible experience thus far! The all-day learning sessions and visits to places like Visit Howard County, Merriweather Post Pavilion, and the Office of Aging and Independence for the Dementia Simulation Live training and the UW 30/30 Experience have shown me just how much there is to discover in Howard County. Despite thinking I knew everything about this community, I’m realizing there’s so much more to learn and explore. The Transportation Challenge was truly an eye-opening experience— trying to navigate unpredictable delays, inoperable technology, limited route coverage, accessibility issues, and much more.; and last but certainly not least, working with my Community Impact Project (CIP) team to create a strategic marketing plan for the Community Ecology Institute has been deeply fulfilling. I’m excited to continue taking on new challenges, expanding my knowledge, and building lasting friendships over the next eight months!”
Monday, November 25, 2024 Feature:
Cindy Skalny, Howard County Government
“My original goal in joining Leadership Howard County was to expand my knowledge of the inner workings of the county and to supplement the experiences I have had in my current job. However, it only took a few weeks to realize that LHC is much more than simply learning about the county. It is about getting comfortable with discomfort. It is about letting myself be vulnerable and sharing with a very group of diverse people that are outside of my regular circles. It is about seeing things in a different way and experiencing things that I may not ever be faced with in my life. It is about challenging myself and those around me.
There are so many opportunities created through this program. From new friendships to learning opportunities, LHC has allowed me to gain perspective and to step into the shoes of others in a way that nothing else ever has. Riding along with a night shift police officer, experiencing dementia through simulation and learning about the county’s public transit system have allowed me to see first-hand what life is like for many around us. LHC has created an amazing program – one that has only just begun for our class of 2025 (the BEST class ever). I am excited for the challenges that are yet to come.
For anyone willing to commit to the hard work and taking a risk at bettering yourself in so many ways, consider joining Leadership Howard County. I am happy to talk to anyone who has questions about the program or to simply share my experiences.”
Monday, December 2, 2024 Feature:
Michael Garcia, Habitat for Humanity Chesapeake
I am glad Habitat for Humanity Chesapeake leadership had the foresight to sponsor me in this meaningful program which has brought new friends, colleagues and community into my personal and professional life.
