The Ankeny Leadership Institute is officially underway!
written by Mackenzie Cowden, participating ALI class member
This year’s class of 25 emerging leaders began their journey with a powerful day focused on self-awareness and personal leadership.
“Participants explored how they believe they show up versus how others actually experience them,” shared Jason Kiesau, who led a session on SOCIAL STYLE & Versatility. “We also dug into behaviors they can adopt immediately to lead, work, and communicate with greater intention and effectiveness.”
In the afternoon, Blake Campbell guided the group through CliftonStrengths, uncovering the top strengths of the cohort. These included Relator, Achiever, Strategic, Responsibility, and Learner.
For many, the insights were eye-opening. Mackenzie Cowden, Chamber staff member and participant, reflected, “Leadership isn’t just about having a vision, it’s about communicating it in a way that helps others see it too.”
Eric Brown, Ph.D., who facilitated the day’s closing reflection, added, “Growth often comes from stepping outside of our comfort zones, even when it feels overwhelming. It was inspiring to see the mix of excitement, curiosity, and determination in the room.”
Over the next eight months, participants will strengthen leadership skills, deepen their connection to the Ankeny community, and collaborate on projects that create visible, lasting impact, including a class project. Past projects have included 515 Day of Impact, Engage Ankeny, and The Ankeny Klothing Exchange (T.A.K.E.).
The Ankeny Leadership Institute is a partnership between the City of Ankeny, the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Ankeny Business & Industry Collaborative, with support from the Renee Murphy Foundation and the Trent & Laura Murphy Foundation.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more vibrant Ankeny through outstanding leadership.
Following their journey on Facebook @ankenyleadershipinstitute or online at www.ankenyleadership.org.