LEONARDTOWN, MD – May 20, 2022: On May 13, 2022, Leadership Southern Maryland’s Emerging Leaders Program (LEAP) Class of 2022 held its fifth of six program sessions. The focus for the session was steward leadership and service,

The day opened at Jefferson Patterson Park’s MAC Lab with a discussion on service through boards featuring several Leadership Southern Maryland board members. The panelists shared insights about the responsibilities that come with board service, how to balance volunteering with other life commitments, and tips on discovering one’s nonprofit passion. These ideas were further explored during a Civic Engagement, Stewardship, & Leadership panel featuring Bishop Dr. Frank Clinton, St. Mary’s County business consultant for the Small Business Development Center and St. Mary’s County Commissioner Eric Colvin. The class members were also treated to a tour of the MAC Lab.

After lunch, the class moved to a Christmas in April worksite where they put words into action: painting shutters, clearing leaves and brush, installing new plants, and more. The class members spent several months preparing for the project and fully committed themselves to executing the vision of the homeowner and Christmas in April Calvert County. This exercise served as the class capstone project and was the final step prior to the group’s graduation next month.

Leadership Southern Maryland’s Emerging Leaders Program (LEAP) provides educational programming opportunities to new or emerging leaders in the region. Through a series of six “experiences,” young leaders facilitate, foster, and refine their individual leadership understanding and abilities via structured course curriculum and a focus on self-discovery, teamwork, and networking. Experts from across the region and state representing business, government, education, and the nonprofit community serve as panelists and guest speakers.