LEAD Institute Gathers Like-Minded Leaders
My name is Gabby Pagura and I work at The Biz Hive in Medina. Through events I’ve attended for work, I’ve come to know many people who absolutely rave about the programs they’ve completed through Leadership Medina County (LMC). Though I was frequently interacting with some of Medina’s most respected individuals, I still struggled to accept that I would belong amongst these highly talented professionals. Being a young professional, I face Impostor Syndrome almost daily; sometimes I don’t feel worthy of the opportunities I’ve been given. However, after one class day with LMC, I knew I was in the right place.
Each class day has been insightful and enjoyable in their own ways, but my mind was blown after our first day at The Blair Conference Center. Terri Greene introduced our class curriculum, we got to network with our classmates, and we jumped right into sharpening our leadership skills. I was so absorbed and entranced by the program that I was genuinely sad when the day came to an end. What struck me the hardest throughout our opening retreat were a few things; my classmates, LMC’s reputation, and Dr. Dale Fortner.
Though there were already some familiar faces in the room, meeting my fellow LEAD Institute members was one of the highlights of my year. I was in my element when I was immediately surrounded by people that wanted to meet me as much as I wanted to meet them! It has been such an honor getting to know my classmates, who have also been amazing resources. While we’re attending class to build upon our own skills, it’s also been such a great experience to bounce ideas off each other.
Personally, one of the greatest benefits of the program would be the guest speakers. Most memorably, Vice President of Human Resources at Sandridge Food Corporation, Dale Fortner. He spoke to us about being a fair and effective leader in the workplace. At the end of his presentation, he handed out his business cards. Printed on the back were fifteen colorful three-letter leadership acronyms. After Dr. Fortner explained the meanings of each letter, I was shocked at the extensive amount of wisdom that was printed on such a small business card.
The level of passion that my fellow LMC members possess makes me confident that I am amongst like-minded people whenever I’m at an event. LMC has built an honorable presence for themselves in Medina County, and I am elated to be involved with an organization that cares so deeply about its community and its members. The impact they have on the citizens of Medina County made joining the LEAD Institute a no-brainer. It was an opportunity that will continue to benefit me for a lifetime, and I am forever grateful for these experiences. If you’re looking for a way to meet new people, learn new skills, and expand your view on leadership, I couldn’t recommend Leadership Medina County more!
Interested in the next class? Contact Terri Greene at terri@leadershipmedinacounty.org.