Every organization needs Emerging Leaders

By Debby Hampton President & CEO United Way of Central Oklahoma

The world needs more emerging leaders.

Leaders who rise above challenges with innovative ideas. Leaders who strive for compassion every day. Leaders who give voice to the voiceless.

United Way of Central Oklahoma’s Emerging Leaders have been committed to developing and honing these critical leadership skills since 2001 when the group was called the Horizon Circle. Emerging Leaders give $500 or more annually to our organization.

Throughout our 100th Anniversary, we have reflected on many profound moments involving our donors, board members, volunteers and countless others. Emerging Leaders, who are members of our overall Leadership Giving Association, inspire us to achieve more in giving back.

Their gifts and time provide moments of hope to so many of our neighbors. We are extremely blessed to have watched this affinity group grow over the years and reach central Oklahomans in an impactful way.

Today, Emerging Leaders is comprised of nearly 800 members representing more than 100 companies across central Oklahoma. These ambitious members are devoted to learning more about our Partner Agencies and the unique needs they address in our community. Their investment in the

Dear Wise Elder: Since Uncle Joe died, I visit my favorite Aunt Nina every week. A few weeks ago she agreed to begin “going through things” in the two extra overstuffed bedrooms and closets. The fact that she is willing to declutter and reduce the stuff is great. I’m applauding her willingness to sort through a lifetime of memories and mementos. As recommended by decluttering experts, we are making three piles – Toss, Sell or Donate. Now she wants me to take some mementos home with me. Aunt Nina is feeling lighter, better and community is met with networking opportunities. Emerging Leaders attend several professional and educational events throughout the year.

Members hear from community leaders during Lunches with Leaders and Evening with Execs events and get a deeper dive into our Partner Agencies by touring their facilities. Volunteer opportunities also present themselves in the form of a donation drive and more.

This year, our centennial year, is extra special, as clutter free; while my emotional load is growing heavy.

Dear Heavy: No worries. Just take the stuff. You don’t have to keep it. Stuff requires care, and she’s glad she no longer has that burden. She is really saying, “Help me by taking it out of sight, but please tell me again about the impact Uncle Joe and I have made as you leave.” Then, take the stuff to the appropriate places where it can be sold, used or recycled for another life.

- Courtesy VillagesOKC, www.VillagesOKC.org (405) 990 6637 our Emerging Leaders are taking on a portion of our Campaign Kickoff. For the first time, these leaders will take the reins on planning The Hole Shebang!, United Way’s corporate cornhole tournament. Stay tuned for more information on this exciting event.

We are always looking for more young professionals passionate about helping their community. Reach out to emergingleaders@unitedwayokc. org or call (405) 236-8441 for more information and to join today.

You can have your ad here! $20 a week. Call (405) 755-3311 for details.

Casady School commits to providing a foundation of excellence for all students, instilling them with the educational and social skills to triumph in their future endeavors.

As Casady School closes the celebration of its 75th Anniversary, the school looks to a bright future.

While the landscape of education has evolved with new understandings of the brain and how we create durable and engaging learning, Casady School commits to providing a foundation of excellence for all students, instilling them with the educational and social skills to triumph in their future endeavors.

Everything the school does is rooted through the lens of its mission. From pedagogy to curriculum design to initiatives, faculty support professional development, and master campus planning, Casady creates traditional, yet forward-thinking, learning environments for students and faculty to ensure the school has the best resources in place so faculty may teach to the top of each child and carry the mission forward. A vibrant school is a combination of its people, places, and programs.

“The faculty has been the foundation and hallmark of the Casady experience throughout its 75 years. The founders sought individuals with personal professional qualifications of integrity, exceptional character and intellectual strength. The national recognition Casady receives today is built upon this treasure of talent,” said Nathan L. Sheldon, head of school.

These individuals nurture Casady students and encourage their growth in mind, body, and spirit. The very best educational institutions are in a cycle of continuous improvement, constantly moving toward greater relevance for the next generation of students they serve; all this while keeping a constant, vigilant eye to traditions and what they mean to the institution.

As the school turns its attention to the next 75 years, the reflection is on a transformational past while knowing

Casady is in a position of strength for the future. The environment is ever changing, and the school needs to be positioned to propel Casady forward. From building a Culture of Philanthropy through Endowment Creation and Growth, Legacy Giving, Annual Giving, Master Campus Development, and Strategic Planning, Casady’s Board of Trustees and leadership today follow the intentionality set forth by the school’s founders. While traditions keep the School grounded, Casady is an educational institution that rises above due in part to its strong roots and commitment to a sustainable future.

Casady students find balance learning the value of working together inside and outside the classroom. They find their own personal purpose that gives them joy they share with the world. At Casady, we paint a portrait— a portrait of a community, a portrait of a life, a portrait of a graduate.