20 celebrated as Wean Foundation emerging leaders

Staff report

WARREN

Graduates of the Raymond J. Wean Foundation’s 2016 Emerging Leaders program celebrated participation in the nine-week experience with community stakeholders at a recent “Launch Party.”

The event took place last week at The Soap Gallery in downtown Youngstown. It provided a networking opportunity to spark meaningful dialogue between the group and current Mahoning Valley leadership regarding future engagement opportunities, foundation officials said.

“Networking is a powerful strength of the Emerging Leaders program. Sharing common challenges and solutions reinforces that I am not alone in this journey,” said Meredith Chaplin of Warren, one of the 20 participants from Trumbull and Mahoning counties who had the opportunity to leverage their unique assets and cultivate fundamental leadership skills.

“The 2016 Emerging Leaders [participants] are a microcosm of our community. They represent the rich diversity of our community and exemplify inclusive and collaborative leadership. The impact created by the Emerging Leaders and their respective organizations will be tremendous,” said Corrie Adams, Emerging Leader liaison.

The leadership experience began with a two-day retreat in April, followed by sessions facilitated by notable researchers/practitioners covering topics such as communication and negotiation, decision-making, strategic partnerships, driving change and managing conflict and resilience.

When asked to reflect on the program’s value, Louise Hayes of Youngstown, said, “The program is a wonderful asset to the community by giving people an opportunity to develop skills and gain tools of leadership. It’s well worth the effort.”

Greg Davner of Youngstown and St. Patrick Church in the city said he feels empowered by the experience.

“I now know I can take the skills I’ve been taught and not only be a leader myself, but pass these incredible truths on to those in my circle of influence,” he said.

The launch party provided a networking opportunity to spark meaningful dialogue between the group and current Mahoning Valley leadership regarding future engagement opportunities. Alumni from past cohorts continue to be connected to the program by participating in various roles including conversation facilitators and peer mentors, officials said.

For information about the foundation’s Emerging Leaders and Leadership programs, visit www.riweanfdn.org.