Kathy Austin selected for Leadership Caldwell Class of 2027

Executive Director, Kathy Austin, has been selected for The Caldwell Chamber's Leadership Caldwell program. Leadership Caldwell has been serving the needs of our community since 1993. Participants in each years cohort experience professional growth, discovery of hidden community assets, and make lifelong friendships and connections. Leadership Caldwell is designed to empower individuals and strengthen organizations through focused, intentional leadership development. The dynamic program beings with a 2 day kickoff in September, followed by full day sessions monthly. Curriculum topics include understanding leadership styles, principles of effective leadership, critical conversations and active listening, building influence, emotional intelligence in action, collaborative problem solving, and strategic planning and goal setting. Sessions will also transition into community engagement, immersive business and industry tours, and a discovery of critical parts of how Caldwell County works, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of our local landscape and its driving forces. In addition to these core modules, participants will engage in a 5-session book study as an exclusive opportunity to connect with fellow leaders. A capstone project benefitting the community and a Graduation ceremony will take place in Spring 2027. Kathy's participation in Leadership Caldwell is an investment not only in professional development, but in our organization's ability to better serve our community. United Way's work depends on strong relationships and a deep understanding of the community we serve. From connecting people with resources and supporting local nonprofit partners, to addressing emerging needs and bringing organizations together around shared challenges, our ability to make an impact begins with knowing Caldwell County and the people who call it home. Through Leadership Caldwell, Kathy will have the opportunity to strengthen relationships across sectors, learn more about the systems and resources that make our county work, and bring new ideas and perspectives back to the United Way of Caldwell County.