Gearing Up for Fall
What’s on the LM horizon and how you can get back into leadership
By Dana Pauley
It’s a bustling time here at the office. We are one week away from our first opening retreat for the Class of 2022 with the Emerging Leaders on September 17th. The following week is the CORE opening retreat and then the final week of September is not only the opening retreat for Senior Leadership Montgomery, but Homecoming. I am grateful for all that the team continues to do to make sure that we offer ways to connect, convene, and learn together. 
Our goal for this program year is to return to a full in-person experience and we have worked hard to envision what that could/would look like from a health, safety, and comfort perspective. This year might still be a little different than a program year looked like prior to the pandemic, but our new Director of Leadership Programs, Rick, is quickly designing three strong programs that we know participants will appreciate. We are so glad to have him onboard.
As we head into fall, we are again seeing shifts in personal preferences regarding gathering in-person. There is no ‘one-size- fits-all’ approach to comfort level, and we must give grace as people navigate the current situation. We’ve moved from handshakes and hugs to elbow bumps among other measures to continue to offer safe ways for people to be together.
There are many things happening in the county and more broadly, across the country, that impact how we lead:
- Continued understanding and requests for inclusive leadership
- Labor shortages and changes in our workforce
- Sustained demands for basic needs
- Ongoing efforts to adapt and respond to changing business needs
With so many important things going on, we must remember the value of outreach, collaboration, and association to carry on.
As you decide what your fall will look like, here are two things for consideration:
Classmate connection: We hope you will find time to touch base with your classmates. Many classes have met, either virtually or in-person and share that these get togethers have been helpful (And please send us your photos if you have a class gathering!).
Homecoming: Don’t forget to renew your dues and register to attend the outdoor Homecoming at Smokey Glen Farm. Help to welcome the class of 2022; see folks that you haven’t seen in a while; and enjoy delicious food. Smokey Glen has hosted LM for Family Picnic for many years and, in recognition of that long standing support and to offer a safe option to bring Homecoming back, we are delighted to transition this event for this year.
Dana Pauley is the President and CEO of Leadership Montgomery