As we kick off our 41st year, I continue to revisit this theme of “Best Class Ever”. While my best class ever (LT31 #followthis) was truly amazing, I have enjoyed the opportunity to be part of other best classes ever. Whether serving as a Curriculum Chair for YLT Class 13 and LT Class 37 (#failureisnotanoption) or participating in program days and retreats, it’s hard not to have a little class envy. The truth is, we are all the best class ever and as a proud LT alumnus, I see the best class ever up and down the roster.
This summer, I was able to witness first-hand both LT 41 and YLT 20 opening retreats. It’s difficult not get nostalgic watching newcomers get dropped off in a parking lot, board a bus with close to 40 strangers and 36 hours later, friendships are formed, perspectives are changed, and the excitement for the coming year is in full force. Marcus Nicolas (LT 37) and Vicki Bradley (LT 39) have amazing classes to lead through this life changing experience.
Our quarterly membership luncheons kicked off earlier this month with a bang bringing an insider’s look into the Children’s Services Council with Executive Director Cecka Rose Green. We look forward to bringing more timely topics to the lunch table throughout this year to keep our alumni educated and engaged.
At the end of this month, Leadership Tallahassee’s signature event the Distinguished Leadership Awards honors a Tallahassee icon, Ron Sachs, as this year’s Lifetime Leader. I encourage you to join us and honor Ron along with all of this year’s nominees for Leadership Pacesetter (Roxanne Hughes (LT 31), Ashley Leggett (LT 33), Inika Williams (LT 39), Leader of the Year (Josh DeSha, Alan Hanstein, Judy Mandrell), and Servant Leader (Elaine Bryant (LT 29), Tena Pate (LT 32), Todd Sperry (LT 7). Tallahassee is truly a community of leaders!
The Leadership Tallahassee family is also growing with the hiring of new staff member, Gatlyn Peacock. Along with our Executive Director, Barbara Boone, and Lili Childree, Gatlyn will be instrumental in ensuring excellence in all Leadership Tallahassee community engagements. Welcome to the greatest team in town!
It is an honor and privilege to represent Leadership Tallahassee as Chair of the Board of Governors this year and I extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the alumni who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure a best-class-ever experience for everyone!