Associates Host Two Leadership Workshops

With their theme, “Leading in the Spirit of Catherine,” nearly 70 associates and sisters participated in two leadership development workshops the weekends of February 24-26 at Holy Trinity Shrine and Retreat in Fort Mitchell, Alabama and March 16-18 at the Moye Spirituality Center in Melbourne, Kentucky.

The aim of both workshops was to develop leadership skills and techniques among local area leaders in Mercy Association. Dr. Kathleen Kane facilitated both weekends. Dr. Kane has worked extensively with Associate Kathy Wade in the Mercy Leadership Development Program for sisters.

South Central Associates Lauren March and Jeri Potter join  Carren Herring rsm as they participate in a planning and implementation exercise during a leadership development workshop at the Moye Spirituality Center in Melbourne, Kentucky March 16-18.

Workshop attendees participated in simulations aimed at increasing self-awareness related to leadership styles. Additional workshop topics included communication and openness, vision and innovation, team work, trust and trustworthiness. Associates also spent time reviewing the current covenant renewal policy.

When asked about what she would take away from the weekend, Associate Bethsy San Milan remarked, “I have learned so much about myself, and I have gain so many new leadership strategies, but most importantly I have fallen in love with Catherine and her charism.”

Regarding the value of such experiences, Associate Ruth McNicholas commented, “Leadership development opportunities such as these are essential as associates deepen and reaffirm our commitment to Mercy in addition to enhancing our practical leadership skills. Not only did we gain practical strategies that we can use with our local Association groups, but we also gained a new and deeper understanding of Catherine as a visionary woman and leader.”

South Central Association Outreach Coordinator Ty Barnes joins workshop attendees as they participate in the “Helium Stick” simulation, an exercise aimed at building team work and cooperation.

Associates have their next leadership meeting planned for September 28-30, 2012 in Belmont, North Carolina.