Ottumwa Leadership Academy is excited to kick off its 5th year with its opening retreat.
“We had so many great applicants this year and we are excited for the 21 participants who are able to make the commitment to this year’s program,” stated Pam Kaupins, Dean for Class of 2017. “I am really looking forward to getting to know the class and the retreat will provide the perfect opportunity to do that.”
This year two scholarships were awarded. The Ottumwa Regional Legacy Foundation wanted to honor Andy Hansen, former board member, and his dedication to the betterment of the Ottumwa community by creating the Andy Hansen Legacy Scholarship. This scholarship is for one year’s tuition for a participant from a non-profit organization or small business that might not otherwise be able to send someone.
“It truly is an honor to be part of the development of leaders in Ottumwa through this scholarship,” stated Hansen. “Each year I’m impressed with the quality of applicants that I review, making it a difficult decision on who gets the scholarship.” This year the Andy Hansen Legacy Scholarship was awarded to Lisa Van Klavern.
The Alumni Association of Ottumwa Leadership Academy created its first ever scholarship for a deserving applicant. “Each year we’ve seen the need for applicants who due to financial restraints – such as owning their own business, being retired, or working for an organization that doesn’t have a budget for professional development – not be able to participate without a scholarship. We wanted to remedy that and our alumni graciously gave towards the scholarship,” stated Natalie Bolin, chairperson of the Alumni Association of O.L.A. This year Julieanne Gentz was awarded the Alumni Scholarship.
The Ottumwa Leadership Academy is a 10-month program and culminates with a graduation banquet in June.
