In Nicollet County, 17 participants will be graduating in the spring of 2021 from the Connecting Nicollet County program. Although they are considered to be 2020 graduates, the participants decided to postpone their celebration until 2021. Connecting Nicollet County is a leadership training program that is connecting people, creating awareness of resources and building leadership throughout Nicollet County.
Catherine Rasmussen is the lead educator for Connecting Nicollet County. She commented, “complex challenges are impacting the communities in which we live. Addressing these challenges requires that leaders are equipped with new tools and resources for decision making and citizen action. Connecting Nicollet County is making these resources available.”
Connecting Nicollet County has been operating since 2010. The program is sponsored by a non-profit organization. Over 227 graduates have participated in the Connecting Nicollet County program, many of whom are serving local boards, businesses, non-profit organizations, committees and government.
Extension provides alumni programming to all graduates of Extension leadership programs. Christy Kallevig, alumni program leader, notes that this alumni network seeks to create mutual benefit. "Leaders in Minnesota's communities are making a difference, and we want to continue to be there to provide education and support. More importantly, these community leaders can be there for each other, sharing ideas and solving problems together."
Highlights from the class of 2020
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