Leadership Skagit Graduates Broaden Understanding of Community Needs

Since 2004, the Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County’s (EDASC) Leadership Skagit program has graduated over 600 alumni, inspiring professionals at every level of their career to deepen their knowledge of community development. 

“I had recently started a new position with the Skagit County Fair and wanted to learn more about the community in which I work and meet other leaders in the county,” said graduate Frances Negranza, assistant manager of the Skagit County Fairgrounds. “The Fair is a community based event, therefore it's vital to get to know and understand the community as a whole. I’m very thankful that I had the support from my place of work to participate.”

Graduates of the nine-month intensive program learn key insights into the interconnection of important county-wide strengths and needs, are educated on various aspects of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion, and also enjoy an expansion of their personal and professional networks.  

“Participating in the program was a game changer,” said Michele Metcalf, housing project director for Community Action Skagit. “Having mostly worked within Tribal communities since I moved to Skagit County in 2009, I was not well networked in the community until I joined the program. Now, there isn't a social gathering that I've participated in where I don't recognize a friendly face. LS has helped me create lasting partnerships (and friendships).”

A Deeper Insight

Since its inception, Leadership Skagit has been recognized with multiple awards. These include Volunteers of the Year by Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group (2020), the Community Leadership Award from Brigid Collins (2018), the Governor’s Leadership Award and Washington State University Hall of Champions Award. But it’s also received countless accolades from those who have completed the program.

“It provided me with deeper insights into the region’s challenges and opportunities while fostering strong connections with a network of dedicated leaders,” said Jason Wells, commissioner for the Anacortes Housing Authority. “Professionally, it has enhanced my ability to collaborate across sectors, and personally, it has reinforced my commitment to driving meaningful community impact, particularly in areas like housing and economic development.”

The program’s curriculum is capped off with a team project that addresses a need in the community with grads receiving 17 academic credits from Skagit Valley College. In the past, these projects have included: 

• Honoring Native Voices: Valley of Our Spirits
• Skagit Game Night
• East Skagit County Community Resource Fair
• Housing Empowerment
• Magic Skagit Farm Day

“I thoroughly enjoyed my experience in the program. Through challenge days over the course of nine months I had the opportunity to set aside dedicated time to be in the same room with other leaders in the community with the expectation to be curious, ask hard questions and challenge my perceptions of the many different aspects of the county,” said Negranza. “I am thankful that I had the opportunity to listen and meet face-to-face with civic leaders, community organizations and local businesses while learning about local history, ecology, community-wide health factors, local politics, economic vitality, arts and community service, which has broadened my understanding of Skagit County as a place, its people and the community as a whole.”

Community Connection

With an eye toward supporting constructive community progress, alumni are encouraged to serve on committees, boards, in professional organizations throughout the county and region, and on task forces. They’re also encouraged to think about serving in elected or appointed offices.

“I have volunteered as an advisor since I graduated from the program in 2023. I enjoy mentoring teams as they make their way through this exciting journey. I am constantly sharing about my experiences with the program and looking for other folks in the community who would benefit from building these connections,” said Metcalf.

For the graduates, it’s been an experience that’s proven invaluable.

“I’m a firm believer that what you get from the program is a direct result from the effort you put in. My cohort was filled with top tier individuals and through learning and working with each other over the course of the program, I now have thirty people from across the county who I can call on for advice, new ideas and even create new potential partnerships between our respective organizations,” said Negranza.

“It provides a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, build meaningful connections, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s needs and opportunities. Whether you're looking to expand your impact, collaborate across sectors, or drive positive change in the community, this program equips you with the tools and network to make a real difference,” said Wells.

Click here to learn more about Leadership Skagit and how you can make our community a better place for all!