CONNECTION

From that first “Big Hello” in Big Sky to the final adjournment in Billings, a powerful transformation is made. Forty-some leaders with diverse backgrounds and opinions become deeply connected to each other and to Montana. Strangers become family.

As I read the final essays from the Class of 2017, I am assured that we did our job of illustrating the challenges and opportunities facing our state. I am confident that our participants grew as leaders and people. And I’m never surprised when I read that the greatest gift we gave them was each other.

“We all have different interests and beliefs. Yet many of us have been able to build a meaningful connection with each other, even if we disagree on things!” – Jim Bennett

Connection is what makes Leadership Montana unique. The experiences we have together are critical to our learning together – and in public. Connection is how we build trust needed to see new viewpoints – to truly invite the stranger.

Connection is what keeps Leadership Montana thriving. As alumni, we stay connected to the organization by serving on the Board or committees, attending events like The Confluence, and speaking to the current class. It is your connection that makes Leadership Montana the premier leadership organization in our state.

I am always thrilled when someone from an earlier class says “I’m ready to reconnect with Leadership Montana.” I heard those sweet words just a couple of weeks ago and you could hear me cheer from across the hall.

So, thank you for staying connected and helping to advance our mission of building a better Montana. We couldn’t do any of this without you.