Building Stronger Business Leaders Through Community Leadership Programs

Professional development in the Iowa Lakes Corridor region extends beyond workplace training. Programs like Lead the Ville in Estherville and the Clay County Leadership Institute offer business professionals opportunities to expand their networks, gain insight into the inner workings of their communities, and participate in projects that create a visible impact. These programs not only build stronger leaders but also more engaged residents with a long-term stake in the Corridor's success.

“Professional development programs like these are vital to helping develop engaged residents, while improving opportunities in the Corridor,” said Trevor Smith, Senior VP of Economic Development at the Corridor. “The things I learned during my time participating in the Leadership Clay program have changed my perspective and helped shift my focus to finding new ways to benefit the entire Corridor community.”

Programs that Shape Leaders and Strengthen Communities

Both programs offer participants a behind-the-scenes look at how their communities operate. From understanding how decisions are made to touring local businesses and institutions, participants gain a perspective that few experience in day-to-day life.

The results extend beyond personal growth. Each class completes a capstone project that strengthens connections among classmates while contributing something lasting to the community. These projects often lead to new partnerships, job opportunities, and business ventures.

“Participating in Spencer Leadership early in my career helped me see the value of civic involvement,” said Joanne Follon, Business Retention & Workforce Partnership Coordinator. “The relationships I built then continue to support my work today.”

Lead the Ville in Estherville

Lead the Ville brings together citizens 18 and older for a ten-month, nine-session program. Participants explore leadership skills, connect with peers, and learn about local institutions through tours, discussions, and presentations.

The 2024–2025 class completed a community mural as their project. For many, the experience reinforced the importance of collaboration and demonstrated how collective effort can leave a lasting impact on the community.

“Lead the Ville gave me a chance to see parts of Estherville I probably never would have otherwise,” said Alyssa Peterson, Coordinator of Administration and Communication at the Corridor. “I came away with new professional relationships and a stronger sense of what and who make the community work.”

Clay County Leadership Institute

CCLI brings together 10 participants each year for a program spanning from August to June, designed to provide a county-wide perspective. Participants tour local businesses and institutions, explore the county's history, and participate in unique hands-on experiences.

The small class size builds strong connections among participants, many of whom carry those relationships forward into business and civic leadership.

“Clay County Leadership helped me better understand the many factors shaping Clay County and the Corridor region as a whole,” said Curt Strouth, President and CEO of the Corridor. “It gave me connections that continue to make a difference in my work with businesses and community partners.”

A Shared Commitment to Participation

Every member of the Corridor staff has participated in at least one of these leadership programs. The investment is intentional. Civic engagement cultivates leaders who understand their communities and are better equipped to support businesses' success.

“I’m currently enrolled in the Clay County Leadership program, and it’s already clear how much value these experiences bring,” said Jenny Dykema, Office Coordinator at the Corridor. “The networking opportunities are unmatched, and the community perspective is invaluable.”

By supporting and participating in these programs, the Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation affirms that leadership is not just about professional growth. It is about building a network of engaged, informed residents who see themselves as contributors to the region’s future.