On May 15, 2025, thirteen professionals from twelve prominent Aroostook County businesses graduated from the Leadership Aroostook program. Held at the Northeastland Hotel in Presque Isle, this event marked the culmination of the program’s fourth cohort, known as the Delta Class.
Leadership Aroostook, a collaborative initiative between the Aroostook Partnership and Husson University’s Institute for Strategic Leadership and Workforce Development, aims to prepare emerging leaders for greater responsibilities within their organizations. The program comprises nine in-person monthly classes, supplemented with readings, written assignments, and team-based projects.
During the graduation ceremony, the Delta Class presented team projects that offered actionable recommendations aligned with the strategic goals of the Aroostook Partnership. These projects focused on two critical issues impacting County businesses: workforce attraction and the lack of accessible, affordable childcare.
Dr. Kiersten Purington, the newly appointed President and CEO of the Aroostook Partnership, delivered the keynote address. She emphasized the importance of self-belief, the courage to make career transitions, and the value of adopting a learning mentality to grow as a leader.
Dr. Marie Hansen, Dean of Husson University’s College of Business and program facilitator, highlighted the program’s benefits, noting that it equips Aroostook County leaders with new skills and knowledge for professional growth and higher levels of organizational engagement. As a result, organizations have observed higher employee retention rates, the application of new skills in the workplace, and even promotions for participants.
The fifth year of Leadership Aroostook is now enrolling students for classes beginning in the fall. The program continues to serve as a valuable platform for developing leadership talent and addressing the pressing challenges facing Aroostook County.
For more information about Leadership Aroostook or to inquire about enrolling in the program, interested individuals can contact Dustin Graham at Dustin.graham@countyfcu.org or Casey Gove at c.gove@katahdintrust.com.https://www.wagmtv.com
(Source: WAGM)