CLASSROOM REFLECTION

Masters Class Reflection

Session 1

Elaine Stedman, Sidney, Class of 2022 and Masters 2023

“Why are you signing up for another session of Leadership Montana so soon after you finished your first session?” I can’t even count the number of times I have answered that question, and the answer has always been a variation of the theme that I am not yet done with my journey.

What a delight it was to begin the Master’s Class this fall. It was so much fun to reconnect with a couple of my classmates from the Class of 2022, Cohort 1. We appear to be the only class that missed the memo about choosing a class moniker. Our Master’s Class has a large number of members from the Class of 2021—the Class Behind the Mask. They graciously invited us into the fold. It was also delightful to have a fellow Road Warrior, Cami Skinner, from Sidney to share the travel. The long drives pass so much more quickly with a travel partner. It was also so great to see Jerry join us at this session.

I remember when I began the Flagship Class, I felt more than a little overwhelmed, not to mention somewhat intimidated, at the first session in Big Sky. That initial awkwardness was not at all evident at the first session of the Master’s Class. I cannot pinpoint the exact reason, but there was an immediate feeling of safety, camaraderie, and ease.

I am looking forward to continue developing relationships with fellow classmates, visiting communities, and connecting with alumni. Most of all I am honored to be continuing my leadership journey, especially during this transitional time in my life.