Leadership Aroostook

Leadership Aroostook began in 2021 and is an annual professional development program created by the Aroostook Partnership in conjunction with Husson University’s Institute for Strategic Leadership and Workforce Development. The goal of the program is to help prepare high potential managers for more responsibility, impact, and effectiveness in leading their organizational teams and departments. Starting in the fall, the program consists of nine in-person monthly classes which are held at the MSAD1 Adult Education Center in Presque Isle. Students also complete readings, written assignments, and a culminating team project. Class topics include critical thinking and decision making, strategic planning, leadership, and financial management.

Participants are professionals from a wide range of small and large area businesses including the agricultural and manufacturing sectors, education, financial services, healthcare, hospitality, insurance, municipalities, and non-profits. The diversity of class participants allows for more in-depth interactions and exchange of ideas.

Dr. Marie Hansen, dean of Husson University’s College of Business and program facilitator, feels that the program provides significant value to both employees and employers. “Leadership Aroostook provides new skills and knowledge to Aroostook County leaders for professional growth and higher levels of organizational engagement. As a result of this program, organizations have seen higher employee retention rates, new skills applied in the workplace and even promotion in roles for the participants.”

Final Projects

The class is divided into 2 groups who work together over the course of the year to develop a final paper and presentation addressing a topic with relevance to The County business community. This allows students the opportunity to work collaboratively and draw on individual strengths to develop a collective project.

The final project is presented to area business leaders and sponsoring organizations which provides the opportunity to highlight participant talent. Final project topics have included:

Unveiling Transportation Solutions for Aroostook County’s Workforce
An Operationalizing Plan for Instituting a Tourism Survey and Creating a Tourism Ambassador Program in Aroostook County, Maine
A Regional Marketing RFP
Aroostook County Workforce Housing Strategic Plan
Increasing Tourism and Visitor Satisfaction: Creating and Promoting Economic Development in Aroostook County
Rebranding Proposal for Opportunities Aroostook

Leadership Aroostook, Gamma Class of 2024-2025

Leadership Aroostook, Epsilon Class of 2025-2026

Steering Committee and Advisors

Our Steering Committee is comprised of past participants who volunteer their time to help answer questions, facilitate enrollment, connect with participants, and ensure that lunches sponsored by area businesses are delivered on class days. Their commitment to the community is what makes this program so special. Members of the Aroostook Partnership Executive Committee serve as Advisors.