LEAD Institute February Class Day: Puzzles, Processes, and Personal Growth
The LEAD Institute Class of 2025 had an engaging and thought-provoking February class day, filled with problem-solving challenges, insightful discussions, and valuable leadership lessons. Hosted at Cornerstone Chapel and fueled by a delicious meal from Jodi at Eclectic Edibles, the day was a perfect blend of mental stimulation and self-reflection.
Cracking the Code with Dr. Ed Meyer
The morning kicked off with an energizing session led by Dr. Ed Meyer, Ph.D., Physics Professor at Baldwin Wallace University. A longtime friend of the LEAD Institute, Dr. Meyer returns each year to challenge participants with intricate puzzles designed to push their problem-solving skills to the limit. His core message, “Don’t Steal Their Struggle,” underscores the importance of allowing individuals to work through challenges rather than rushing to provide answers. This approach fosters resilience, critical thinking, and the ability to navigate complex situations—key traits for effective leaders.
Laying the Groundwork for Conflict Resolution
After an interactive morning, participants enjoyed a fantastic Baked Potato Bar before transitioning into an initial exploration of conflict resolution. Though the main session on this topic is scheduled for March, this month’s discussion focused on the foundation of conflict resolution: establishing a trustworthy process. The class analyzed how leaders can create structures that foster open dialogue, mutual respect, and fair outcomes in times of disagreement.
Self-Awareness & Self-Promotion with Cathy Posner
For the second month in a row, we were fortunate to welcome back Cathy Posner, a highly respected trainer known for her expertise in emotional intelligence and professional development. Cathy guided the class through a deep dive into self-awareness and self-promotion, helping participants reflect on their strengths and the qualities they admire in the leaders who inspire them. By identifying these leadership traits, the class discussed ways to integrate them into their own leadership journeys.
A Day of Growth and Gratitude
From tackling brain-teasing puzzles to uncovering personal leadership strengths, February’s class day was an opportunity for growth, collaboration, and preparation for future challenges. A huge thank you to Dr. Ed Meyer for reminding us of the value in the process, to Cathy Posner for her continued wisdom and inspiration, and to our gracious hosts at Cornerstone Chapel.
As we look ahead to next month’s deep dive into conflict resolution, the lessons from this session will serve as a strong foundation for our leadership development. Here’s to another step forward on our journey!