The Shelton Leadership Center staff is partnering with the NC Cooperative Extension to produce and facilitate curriculum for the Academy to Advance Leadership within Extension (AALE) program.

This year-long leadership development opportunity launched in January, with cohort members meeting in Durham for the first of five sessions. The cohort brings together 24 mid-career Extension professionals from across North Carolina. Each of the five sessions spans multiple days and will take place at different Extension office locations, concluding in December.

“The Academy to Advance Leadership within Extension was established to intentionally invest in the next generation of Extension leaders,” David Herpy, Extension Organizational Development Coordinator, said. “Our goal is to strengthen leadership competencies that are essential for today’s complex Extension environment — self-awareness, communication, collaboration, and strategic thinking — so participants are better prepared to lead people, programs, and communities across North Carolina.”

Facilitated by Tiffany McLean of the Shelton Leadership Center, the curriculum equips participants with the experiential knowledge to implement the leadership competencies in their own situations.

During the January session, the cohort focused on “Leading Self” and explored how their core values and natural talents shape their leadership style. To do this, they completed a CliftonStrengths assessment to identify their unique strengths and potential blind spots. They engaged in in-depth discussions on how emotional intelligence and self-awareness can enhance leadership effectiveness.

“This learning experience is intentionally designed so that participants have the opportunity to learn about their leadership approach through different lenses. By first exploring their individual strengths, they will be prepared to engage in future AALE sessions that cover leadership on a large scale, whether organizationally or community-wide,” McLean said. “We’re intentionally hosting these sessions throughout the state of North Carolina to meet Extension agents where they are, as well as explore how these trainings are applied in various communities in our home state.”

As a result of the first workshop session, 100% of participants surveyed agree they can articulate their core values, how those values influence their leadership style, and leverage their strengths to become more effective leaders.

“After attending the first session of AALE, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it encouraged genuine introspection and deeper self-awareness.  It immediately prompted me to reflect on how I show up as a leader, and how recognizing my blind spots can influence the team dynamic,” County Extension Director for Guilford County Center Natalie Owens said. “I can already see how the sessions will positively impact how I lead and work alongside others moving forward. I recognized through taking the assessments and talking out my results with Tiffany during the coaching call that I may miss opportunities for engagement because of my tendency to focus on tasks and outcomes. She really asked hard questions and patiently waited for answers, which was eye opening for me.”

““The first session helped me gain deeper insight into my personal leadership strengths and tendencies. I’m eager to further develop my self-awareness, adaptability, and intentionality in leading others, so that I can contribute more effectively to team success and advance Extension’s mission,” John Lyttle, an Agriculture Agent in Durham County, said. “After attending the first AALE session, I feel better equipped to recognize and appreciate the wide-ranging perspectives, styles, and approaches of my colleagues. This awareness allows me to lead and collaborate more effectively, fostering goal achievement, supporting Extension’s mission, and promoting the development and success of everyone involved.”

The first session included various site visits, including to Durham County Cooperative Extension and a tour of the Briggs Avenue Community Garden, to demonstrate how dedicated leadership translates into tangible community resources and a positive impact.

Participants also heard from distinguished leadership practitioners. Guest speakers, including Tyrone Fisher, North Central District Extension Director, and Dr. Mike Lee, Chairman of the Durham County Board of County Commissioners, shared their experiences, illustrating how strong local leadership can drive meaningful change at a broader scale.

The AALE program is made possible by a grant from the North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund Commission.