We have some fantastic news to share! Two outstanding optimist members from the Michigan District, Toni Gore and Stacy Jackson, have officially been accepted into the Optimist Leadership Academy. This incredible achievement deserves all the celebration and recognition it can get.
Meet the Stars of the Moment
While we celebrate this achievement, let us introduce the two Michigan District members:
- Toni Gore – Battle Creek-Harper Optimist Club
Toni is currently servicing as Club President for the Battle Creek-Harper Creek Optimist Club as well as serving next year as Lt. Governor for Zone 6. She is known for her infectious enthusiasm and commitment to community service. She has spent countless hours brainstorming events and strategies to engage youth in her local area. - Stacy Jackson – Breakfast Optimist Club of Kalamazoo
Stacy’s leadership in her community has been nothing short of inspiring. Currently serving as the District’s Conferences & Convention Chair, and will be District Events Coordinator for next year. She has taken on multiple roles to champion causes important to the youth and has demonstrated exemplary leadership skills at a young age.
These remarkable individuals not only embody the spirit of Optimism but also inspire those around them.
What is the Optimist Leadership Academy?
The Optimist Leadership Academy (OLA) is focused on identifying and developing Members that have the potential to be good leaders at the District and International levels of our organization. OLA is a nine-month program that consists of sessions that center on primary leadership skills with a new skill set being focused on monthly. Each month, October – May, will focus on a different set of skills necessary to be a successful leader. In June, the entire group will come together in-person for the final session.
The acceptance into OLA sets the stage for future accomplishments. Toni and Stacy will participate in various training sessions, workshops, and networking events. There, they’ll further develop their skills and prepare for more extensive leadership roles within their clubs and communities.
According to the Optimist International, graduates of the Leadership Academy emerge with a deeper understanding of leadership principles, enabling them to serve their communities more effectively.
A strong takeaway? Immediate community projects can be reimagined. The academy encourages real-world applications, guiding participants to rethink traditional approaches. For more information, please visit the OLA page on the Optimist International website.
Let’s all congratulate our talented members from the Michigan District, Toni Gore and Stacy Jackson. Their acceptance into the Optimist Leadership Academy is a beacon of hope and inspiration for others around them.
