The Elevate Leadership Institute (ELI) offers an exceptional opportunity for individuals across the Black Hills region to develop as proactive, visionary leaders. Learn from the ELI Class of 2024 Graduate, Bailey Sadowsky (SD CEO West Women’s Business Center at BHSU), on why you should consider applying for the 2024 - 2025 ELI Program:
Facilitating Open Conversations
ELI fosters a supportive environment where participants can develop the confidence to engage in meaningful dialogue and address challenging issues.
Bailey Sadowsky highlights the invaluable skills she gained through the program: "I think some of the biggest things I always learn are from the human interactions that happen in classes like this. I've gotten more confident asking the hard questions to everyone: to people who have seemed like they're in authority positions, high people in the community, or even my friend next door. Being able to facilitate those open conversations is one of the big skills I took out of this class."
Experiencing Key Community Insights
The program offers unique insights into critical community issues, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of local challenges and the tools to contribute to their solutions.
Bailey recalls, "Going to Ellsworth was pretty awesome, and I always enjoy talking about housing and childcare. Even though it's a very depressing subject at the moment, it's important to know what's going on in the community and to be able to see the pieces and seeing how the community is responding so you can be a part of the solution. Even though that is not necessarily the funnest topic in the world, it's really impactful for me to see ways that you can get involved to solve the problem for things affecting everyone in our community."
Expanding Professional Networks
Building a robust network is crucial for any leader. ELI connects participants with influential figures and like-minded peers dedicated to community improvement.
Bailey notes, "Eli impacted my current job position by helping me expand my network, learn about how the pieces in Rapid City work a little bit better, and the needs of the communities."
Lifelong Lessons
The relationships and lessons gained from ELI stay with graduates, continually driving them to achieve greater heights and contribute positively to the community.
Summarizing her ELI experience, Bailey says, "The people around you are the people that move you forward."
Are you ready to enhance your leadership skills and make a lasting impact in your community?
Applications for the ELI Class of 2025 close June 17th, 2024.