Leadership Whitley County represented at regional conference

LWC Program Director Kelley Sheiss and recent Class 9 graduate Angela Green of Great Batch Medical enjoyed a day of engaging leadership development and networking at the Northern Indiana Community Leadership Conference held at Notre Dame University on August 24.

A combination of general programs, breakout sessions and networking opportunities offered a wealth of information on servant leadership, communications, civic engagement, diversity and innovation.

The morning kicked-off with an inspiring presentation by Lou Nanni, Vice President of University Relations for Notre Dame.  Nanni emphasized three key areas to close the gaps in our global society: 

(1)   Focus on being faithful (to what gives you meaning and joy), not successful

(2)   Displace yourself (go out of your comfort zone)

(3)   Remember service is a privilege, not a responsibility.

“Service is a spirit,” said Nanni.  “Being a servant leader is tough day in and day out.  It doesn’t mean to be weak.  It means holding yourself and others to higher standards.  Leadership is best when it is given, not when it is sought after.  Seek to be a servant, more than a leader.”

Nanni closed with the following thoughts: “Everybody is in search of meaning and joy in their lives.  Success does not lie in what we achieve; it lies in the effort and example we give every day.”

Another motivational speaker full of enthusiasm was Phil Newbold, President/CEO of Memorial Hospital/Health System in South Bend.   An individual who has developed several innovative creations in the healthcare field, Newbold outlined the keys to innovation:

(1)   Take “Innovisits” (site visits to other places)

(2)   Remember that big ideas attract big resources

(3)   Become good at rapid prototypes

(4)   Realize it’s not always about  high-tech solutions

(5)   Become a “test organization”

(6)   Think carefully about spaces and environments

Newbold encouraged participants to immerse themselves in the issue and be ready to show results and demonstrate effectiveness.