Class XXI Kicks Off with a Bang!
A Message from Dana Shadid, VP-Program
Not really a bang, but there was a lot of music! Once again Leadership Oklahoma has recruited an exceptional group of individuals to become a part of this great organization. I’m not going to predict that this class will be the best yet, but I can tell you that this is a class made up of 52 gifted, talented and very creative and caring individuals, including many fine musicians.
After a relatively tame orientation, they got to know each other much better at Roman Nose during their retreat! Like all the classes before them, they were introduced to their leadership styles by Dr. Gary Richetto. This was the 21st year for Gary to work with the class and he did a great job. Along with the leadership styles inventory, they also put their team building skills to the test with a survival exercise. With these activities, the class learned very quickly what makes a team work.
This class had the opportunity to do something that no class before them has done at a retreat – The Roman Nose Experience! This was a team building exercise that actually brought their hidden talents to light. The class was divided into 4 groups. With the leadership of Shahla Rahimi Reynolds (Class XVI) each group had the opportunity to learn a new talent, as well as, work together as team. When all was said and done we realized that there were 52 visual artists, dancers, musicians and improv actors in Class XXI.
On Saturday morning Nance Diamond (Class I) and Clayton Taylor (Class III) shared the history of LOK and the impact their involvement has had on their lives since their class. The current class had an opportunity to share their expectations of LOK, as Ann and I shared our expectations of the class.
Finally, I would challenge each of you to try and make an effort to get to know the members of this class. If they are meeting in your region attend the Thursday evening activity. The class members want to get to know you and you NEED to get to know all of them. They have a wealth of enthusiasm and passion for Oklahoma that they are eager to share. For a further look at Class XXI go to Current Class tab at the top.