Feature F LEADERSHIP GREATER ROCHESTER PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
Stephanie Fisher, Associated Bank Christian Mogensen, Think Bank Leadership Greater Rochester (LGR) Class of 2019 Q: What is the value of the LGR program? A: The LGR program was a great way to immerse ourselves in the community to gain perspective on economic and workforce development,
sustainability practices, local government, the arts, and much more. Class members were able to sharpen their leadership skills with education, team collaboration, and self-reflection - All while having fun together and contributing to the vibrancy of the Rochester community. Q: What was your CIP project? A: Our class partnered with Threshold Arts to deliver The CRATE Art Lending Library to our area to create equal access to art, increase exposure for local and regional artists, and promote growth and innovation for the future of the arts. This library allowed local residents to borrow art and enjoy it in their homes or offices for periods of time. During the pandemic in 2020, the Castle Community pivoted and agreed to provide its public commons and corresponding arts and retail spaces on the second floor to Echo Church.
Mike Schmitt, IBM Prasanna Narayanan, Mayo Clinic LGR Class of 2020 Q: What is the value of the LGR program? A: The 2020 cohort entered the LGR program wide- eyed and ready to make a change in Rochester. Our backgrounds varied from non-profits, local
businesses, Fortune 500 businesses and everything in between. One of the top virtues we took away from the LGR program was the ability to bond and embrace the energy of our classmates. LGR themed monthly sessions provided education on various aspects of the community and allowed us to share our strengths and backgrounds. Q: What was your CIP project? A: The LGR 2020 cohort chose to address food insecurity as the main theme for our Community Impact Project. A lack of consistent access to adequate and healthy food is a significant issue that affects many of our residents in Rochester. After interviewing numerous local stakeholders, we decided to partner with the community schools within the Rochester Public School District to help support their resource rooms. Through our fundraising efforts, in addition to household supplies and monetary donations, we were able to garner a refrigerator, washer, (and dryer?) for all 4 community classrooms in Rochester. The washer/ dryers will help students who don’t have access to regular laundry facilities, and the refrigerators will stock healthy, nutritious food for students and their families.
Advantage Magazine | 7
May 2021
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