Big Sky, Big Leadership, Broadwater County

“Leadership has helped me to understand that leaders come in all different shapes and sizes and approaches.  I have learned that I don’t need to change my nature in order to lead, many quiet and introspective examples of leaders.” -Big Sky Big Leadership Graduate, Class of 2024

Big Sky, Big Leadership is a statewide community leadership initiative developed by MSU Extension.  Rural communities face significant challenges that range from struggling economic conditions to changing demographics to qualify of life.  These complex issues cannot be easily solved and require innovative leaders to look and think in new ways.  This program works to address the need for community leaders and help develop leadership skills and improve awareness of local issues.

In the fall of 2021, Big Sky, Big Leadership (BSBL) launched in Broadwater County. By the fall of 2024, 37 people have successfully completed the program in the county.

BSBL is a nine-month program starting in September and ending in May.  At each daylong session is leadership skill development and community experiences.  Leadership topics focused on personal development as well as working with others.  Topics include conflict management, personality types, volunteer engagement, generational differences and group dynamics.  The purpose of the community experience was to increase awareness and understanding of community resources and issues.  Each session featured a tour or a guest speaker or panel to present critical information on the topic.  The last component of the program is a group project.

Applications for BSBL open in July of each year.  

 

Leadership Development Training

Extension faculty are available to help organizations, community groups and local government improve leadership competencies.  Sessions use interactive techniques to engage participants in a variety of topics.  Popular training topics include Real Colors Personality Traits, Gracious Space, effective meetings, parliamentary procedure, generational understanding and more.  Contact the office to schedule a consultation.