The Early Childhood Services Department has been hosting a leadership group for the past three years. The group meets once a month during the school year to talk about common obstacles, work on soft skills, and cover basic leadership topics and concepts. Run by Lori Tantakis, the group has had great things to say during their sessions, and the community it has built.
“My favorite was the difficult conversation session, it helped me with speaking to a group. Those are my biggest challenges, and look at me, I even spoke first today,” said Kolby Tator.
“For me it was the session on core values, and how it’s important to stay true to who you are and why you are doing what you are doing. I also learned how to carry myself more professionally, how to talk to people, and how to listen to people.” Said Ashley Grant-Noxon
“Being in a different group where everyone has commonalities was really good. Everyone was always excited to come back together and share what you’ve learned about yourself. Being able to get to know Lori more on a personal level too. She’s management, so we are always scared when she comes in the building, but knowing her on a personal different level helps put you at ease,” said Brandy Radley.
“Being around a group that we don’t see on a day-to-day basis, but that has similar experiences, but different perspectives, and make connections has been great,” said Amanda Muzio-Phillips.
“CEO invests a lot of time in their employees, so this shows you how much they are willing to invest in their employees, and that they care about us. I improved for sure, it’s easier to have conversations with people higher up in the organization. Now I feel more comfortable opening up to people,” said Emily Williams.
Pictured is this year’s ECS leadership group, with leads Lori Tantakis, Director of Center Based Operations, and Tracy Baker, Rensselaer Family Resource Center Manager.
Leadership Class:
Ashley Grant-Noxon
Paula Geren
Brandy Radley
Emily Williams
Megan Reed
Amanda Muzio-Phillips
Kolby Tator
Nadine Schworm
