#leadny

On April 21, Marie Anselm, Agriculture Economic Development Specialist, CCE Ontario and Cheryl Thayer, Local Food Distribution & Marketing Specialist, Harvest New York, graduated from LEAD New York, a two-year leadership development program for professionals in the food, agriculture and natural resource industries of the Northeast.

In the first year, monthly meetings are held at different locations throughout New York State, focusing on self-awareness and leadership skills. Successful completion of year one leads to a certificate that positions participants to serve in a variety of local leadership roles.

Participants reapply for the second year of the program, which involves 30 days of commitment and involves out-of-state and international travel, including a two-week study tour. Those who successfully complete the second year of the program become LEAD Fellows.

Newly-minted Lead Fellow Anselm said that LEAD New York gave her the opportunity to expand professionally and personally and that exposure to numerous agricultural sectors and personalities from all across New York State was incredibly valuable.

“As a CCE employee, I interact regularly with many diverse communities and I can honestly say that my experience in LEAD New York gave me the tools to more confidently and professionally engage with the stakeholders I encounter in my job. I’m thankful to LEAD NY, and to my CCE association, for my time in the program,” said Anselm Thayer echoed Anselm’s sentiment saying that the program exposed her to all facets of the food system, from a local, national and international perspective, and greatly improved her skills in public speaking, effective group facilitation and the ability to motivate others.  She said her experiences provided her with the knowledge and confidence to bring together stakeholders from diverse backgrounds with a shared goal of building stronger regional food systems.  

“The network of high-caliber individuals and organizations that I met through LEAD New York will undoubtedly serve as a tremendous asset as I continue my career in agriculture and food systems development," said Thayer.  

LEAD New York Executive Director Larry Van De Valk says the program is an “excellent professional development opportunity for virtually any CCE staff member.”

For more information, contact Van De Valk at [email protected] or check the LEAD New York website.