The Power of Community Leadership: Bridging Divides for the Common Good

We find ourselves in challenging times. As a non-partisan organization, Leadership Anne Arundel (LAA) prioritizes unity and community over politics, so I’ll avoid sharing personal political perspectives. But regardless of where you stand on the spectrum, there’s no denying these are difficult days. With the ongoing government shutdown affecting so many federal workers, rising healthcare costs, and increasing uncertainty, anxiety is palpable in our communities.

This is precisely when community leadership becomes essential. The vision of Leadership Anne Arundel is to develop and nurture community trustees who improve the quality of life in Anne Arundel County by convening diverse stakeholders, bridging their divides, and facilitating resolutions for the common good.

Bridging Divides Among Diverse Stakeholders

Community leadership isn’t about party affiliation; it’s about committed individuals working together to strengthen their neighborhoods. While disagreements exist, daily acts of kindness and collaboration serve as common ground; opportunities upon which we can build a more united community.

Recent feedback from our government day session survey highlighted the importance of connection and understanding among different groups:

My biggest "ah ha" moment was realizing how much our voices actually matter. I always assumed that reaching out to government officials was a complicated or ineffective process, but now I see that they truly want to hear from us and are proud to serve. It made me feel proud of what they do and more motivated to stay involved.

I really did have a very cynical view of politics and politicians. That was largely framed based on what is happening on the federal level. It was really refreshing to talk with elected officials who are extremely intelligent and thoughtful and really care about their constituents and community. It was incredibly inspiring.

My takeaway from the entire day was that our government elects are hardworking individuals who believe in our democracy and want to ensure that we the people are properly represented. I did not initially believe that was true. 

Getting to know local legislators and learning that they are far more accessible and concerned about local issues than the media and social media portrays was valuable.

LAA continuously offers programs for alumni development, creating ongoing opportunities for community leaders to connect, collaborate, and make a difference. Even when words fail to bridge differences, working shoulder to shoulder on projects and initiatives helps improve life for our neighbors.

Connecting through Action and Engagement

Last week, LAA hosted its first BoardMatch event, enabling nonprofits to connect with local leaders eager to give back and address pressing issues. Next month, our Women’s Executive Forum will feature a wine tasting event; a gathering that fosters fellowship, connection, and shared leadership among women in our community. 

This year's holiday season will be special with our return to Homestead Gardens for the LAA Holiday Party, offering warmth and holiday cheer. Additionally, LAA 101 continues to be an excellent way to engage with our network, and a new ongoing LAA Pop Up event is in development, providing regular opportunities for community leaders to unite, share passions, and identify causes that enhance life in Anne Arundel County.

Stay tuned for the first LAA Pop Up | A casual space for Connection, Conversation and Community – coming soon!

In a divided world, community leadership is more important than ever. By working together beyond partisan lines, we can build stronger, more resilient neighborhoods and create a brighter future for all.

Ready, set, WELCOME!

Welcoming a whole new Flagship Class and Celebrating milestone Flagship Anniversaries!

Here we are again - to say the summer has flown by would be an understatement! LAA has been busy all summer long, staffing up and preparing for 52 new Flagship participants set to launch their year together at the Opening Retreat on Thursday, September 11. 

Hopefully you've seen our social post welcoming our new staff. We are thrilled to welcome Pam Godfrey as LAA's new Director of Programs & Events. If you missed the news last month, you should know Pam joins our new Operations and Membership Manager, Kesha Weldon. We are swiftly onboarding over here and can't wait to welcome the new Flagship cohort! Click HERE to learn more about the team!

You have the opportunity to JOIN US in our welcoming at the fan-favorite Signature LAA event, the Program Kickoff & Homecoming on Tuesday, September 30 from 5:30 - 7:30pm at the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Not only will we be welcoming the NEW Flagship class, we will be celebrating Milestone Anniversaries for previous classes: 

FLG2025 = Just graduated!
FLG2020 = 5 Years
FLG2015 = 10 Years
FLG2010 = 15 Years
FLG2005 = 20 Years
FLG2000 = 25 Years
FLG1995 = 30 Years


We will feature LARGE class photos where you can update changes since your Flagship graduation on post-it notes; enjoy tunes from Doug Segree, fabulous food by The Bell House Catering and warm LAA connections among your class and DECADES of LAA grads!

Thanks to confirmed Event Sponsors:
Heritage Level - M&T Bank
Trustee Level - Lily & David Openshaw
Patron Level - Ellen & Kevin Chase

There's more sponsorship available for the Kickoff and loads of other LAA opportunities coming up soon. Give me a shout to learn how you can add your name to LAA's highly valued Program & Event supporters.

Click HERE to register to attend the Program Kickoff & Homecoming and stay tuned for the announcement of FLG26 participants!

by Kris Valerio Shock, LAA President & CEO

The LAA community is hard-wired to care and contribute, positively impacting our community. Back in 2020, while we were reeling from early days of the COVID crisis, understanding our members desire to gather (safely) and help those in need, we kicked off the LAA Food Collection, benefitting the Anne Arundel County Food Bank and Feed Anne Arundel. 

So, Who's the Best Class?