Snelling Center for Government

The Vermont Leadership Institute

The Vermont Leadership Institute Class of 2008 Program Schedule:

Session 1: OPENING RETREAT
September 20 & 21, 2007 - Addison County
Team building exercises and experiential activities help associates become acquainted and prepare for the program. Assessment tools help identify information processing and communication preferences.

Session 2: KNOW THYSELF
October 25, 26 & 27, 2007 - Lamoille County
Information from several in-depth assessments and reflective exercises create a rich picture of each individual associate's leadership style as well as that of the group as a learning community. Data concerning personal values and motivation, 360 degree feedback, learning and change styles, and more form a foundation of knowledge from which the group will discuss Vermont’s key issues.

Session 3: ETHICAL DECISION-MAKING AND SYSTEMS THINKING
November 30 & December 1, 2007 – Caledonia County
Associates examine the big picture: the systems in which they live and work. They apply an ethical perspective to leadership, and continue to address their short and long-term goals.

Session 4: DECISION MAKING AND HEALTH CARE
January 11 & 12, 2008 - Chittenden County
The health care system and health care issues set the stage for an exploration of the roles of ethics and dialogue in the decision-making process.

Session 5: CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE SHAPING OF PUBLIC POLICY
February 10, 11 & 12, 2008 - Washington County
This three-day session focuses first on global climate change and then on local policy making. With the help of many of Vermont's public servants, associates examine local and global community and the interplay between values, ethics, policy, and finance.

Session 6: EDUCATION AND CORRECTION
March 14 & 15, 2008 - Windham County
Associates examine education, the economy, and the quality of life in Vermont. Issues of governance, interagency relationships, and justice are explored from multiple perspectives.

Session 7: PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT AND CREATIVE LEADERSHIP
May 9 & 10, 2008- Bennington County
Associates explore ways to foster public participation in community-building activities. They look at how Vermont communities define themselves, meet diverse needs, and use resources to create a healthy environment.

Session 8: COMMENCEMENT
June 6 & 7, 2008 - Addison County
Associates reflect on the year and on their growth. Festivities honor their efforts and commitment.

For more information about the leadership programs at the Snelling Center for Government, please contact Susan McCormack, Director of Leadership Development.