Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Kosciusko Leadership Academy welcomed the class of 2027 during Kickoff Day on Aug. 25 at The Owl’s Nest Banquet Hall in North Webster.
The day introduced cadets to the KLA experience while giving them an opportunity to connect with one another and begin exploring the people, organizations and industries that shape Kosciusko County, according to a provided news release.
Dr. Allyn Decker, moderator for KLA, welcomed the new class and provided an overview of the academy and the year ahead. Cori Humes, executive director of the Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau, shared the mission and work of the KCCVB, along with facts and insights about Kosciusko County’s communities, attractions and resources.
Following the morning session, cadets traveled throughout the county aboard transportation provided by Grace College. The group experienced a ride on the Dixie sternwheeler on Webster Lake before visiting Polywood in Syracuse. During the visit, cadets learned about entrepreneurship, sustainable manufacturing and Polywood’s continued growth and impact in Kosciusko County.
KLA also recently announced a new partnership with the K21 Health Foundation designed to encourage continued community involvement among academy graduates.
Beginning with the KLA Class of 2026, any graduate who joins a nonprofit board of directors within three years of graduation may qualify for a $1,000 donation from the K21 Health Foundation to the nonprofit organization in the graduate’s name.
Graduates interested in participating may contact Angie Summers at the K21 Health Foundation to complete the required form. Once approved, the donation will be provided directly to the nonprofit organization.
Graduates who are interested in serving but have not yet identified the right opportunity may also connect with Alex Hall at the Kosciusko County Community Foundation. Through the foundation’s Board Bank program, prospective board members can be matched with local nonprofit organizations seeking volunteers with their interests and experience.
The partnership further supports KLA’s goal of preparing graduates to remain actively involved in the community and use their leadership skills to strengthen Kosciusko County’s nonprofit organizations.
KLA is a nonprofit organization that develops informed and engaged community leaders through a yearlong program focused on the businesses, organizations, government entities and community resources that make Kosciusko County unique.
The next KLA session will be Preserving Kosciusko County’s Water Resources at the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams at Grace College Sept. 8.
