PEAK Leaders Class 2 in Olympia

Pictured from left: PEAK Leaders Chris Riffle, Jill Dole, Daniel Collins, Cammy Brown, Wendie Dyson, Sandra Lawrence, Whitney Meissner, and Shari Morrison, visit Olympia for a two-and-a-half day seminar on Dynamic Leadership: State Government and Public Policy.

Pictured, back left, standing, Sandra Lawrence, Sequim, IT Project Specialist & Desktop Support, Olympic Medical Center; seated, from left, Cammy Brown, Port Hadlock, Paralegal and Chimacum School District Board Director; Max Mania, Port Angeles, Grocery Clerk and Writer, Country Aire Natural Foods, and Candidate for Port Angeles City Council; Wendie Dyson, Port Townsend, Business Manager, Third Ear Project; Daniel Collins, Port Townsend, Olympic Region Coordinator, Pacific Northwest Trail Association; Chris Riffle, Port Angeles, Attorney, Platt Irwin Law Firm; Jack Slowriver, Port Angeles, Executive Director, Family Planning of Clallam County. Pictured from front left is Shari Morrison, Port Townsend - Small Business Owner, Master Cleaners; Jill Dole, Port Angeles - Prevention Specialist, Clallam County Health & Human Services; and Whitney Meissner, Port Ludlow, Principal, Chimacum Middle School and High School.

“The PEAK Program is very excited to be able to introduce this new class of PEAK Leaders,” according to executive director Danille Turissini. “They are everything and more than we could have imagined recruiting for this second class; then again, that’s what we thought about the first class too! Seriously, it would be disingenuous for us to take credit for their participation. The truth is, these leaders submit to the rigors of the program in order to increase their personal leadership capacity, so they will have more of themselves to reinvest on behalf of their communities and the region.

“Even so,” Turissini explains, “The PEAK Leadership Program is very selective about who it will accept into the program. In order to qualify, a candidate must complete a detailed application and questionnaire and undergo an interview. All applicants are required to make a 100-percent commitment to participate in the 10-month program, with very few exceptions. This is where it gets a little tough for some applicants; it seems, even more so than the cost of tuition.”

The class convened its first in a series of 10 sessions on September 24-26, in Port Angeles. The opening session, themed “The Starting Point of Leadership”, was sponsored by Brooke Nelson, Coldwell-Banker Uptown Realty, and Don Perry, Port Angeles Heritage Underground Tours. The two-and-a-half day session included a “Welcome to Port Angeles” by Jamie Valadez, Elwha Klallam Tribe, who addressed the PEAK Leaders in her native Kallam language; a tour of the Port Angeles Heritage Underground, provided by Dusty Rhodes; and a four hour team building experience on the Peninsula College Challenge Course, among other activities.

The mission of the PEAK Program is to foster leaders who are purposeful, effective, authentic, and who exemplify the keystone of quality leadership. It is geared toward those who want to increase their personal and professional development, as well as gain a deeper appreciation of the skills and dynamics of collaborative leadership.

The program provides emerging and existing leaders with the unique opportunity to gain first-hand information and a deeper understanding of the complexities and interconnectivity of our communities on the North Olympic Peninsula. The program accomplishes this through a series of ten, once-a-month community- or topic- perspective learning sessions held on site, at different locations throughout the two-county region. The enhanced leadership skills acquired through participation in the PEAK Leadership Program benefits employers, businesses, governments, organizations, local communities, the region, and beyond.

The PEAK Leadership Program is a state and federally recognized 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization. For more information, please visit http://peakleadershipnw.net or email info@peakleadershipnw.net.

The PEAK Leadership Board of Directors:

1. Board President - Joseph F. Murray, Pysht-Clallam Bay, Managing Forester, Merrill & Ring Pysht Tree Farm
2. 1st Vice President - John Calhoun, Forks, Director, UW Olympic Natural Resources Center, Clallam County Port Commissioner
3. 2nd Vice President - Katherine Baril, Port Townsend, Director, WSU Jefferson County Extension and EDC Team Jefferson
4. Treasurer - Becky McGinty, Port Angeles, owner, BSG Enterprises
5. Secretary - Jan Gannett, Sequim, retired Microsoft Program Manager, owner, WitZend Solutions, volunteer board member, Dungeness Valley Health & Wellness Clinic
6. Ian McFall, Brinnon, Corporate Business Consultant
7. Meri Parker, Neah Bay, President, Ozett Associates, LLC
8. Shelby Smith, Port Hadlock, Administrative Assistant, EDC Team Jefferson
9. Craig Wier, Port Townsend, EDC Team Jefferson
10. Bill Wise, Port Townsend, Chair, EDC Team Jefferson.

Turissini continued, “I am honored to have the support of such an amazing and capable group of people. I am grateful for their very generous offering of time, energy, expertise and resources in order to ensure the future success of this vital program to our region.”

Leading the PEAK Program into this new phase of operation is Joseph F. Murray, newly elected as president of the PEAK Board. Joe is the Managing Forester for Merrill & Ring Pysht Tree Farm in Clallam Bay, where he has been employed for nearly 30 years. He is also a graduate of the Washington State AgForestry Leadership Program.

Murray states, “The primary challenges of the PEAK program going forward are to establish a network of people who will help recruit participants for the program, and to strengthen the sustainability of the organization by cultivating a stable fiscal base. I accept this challenge with great optimism because the community has already shown that it understands the need for this program and that it’s also willing to contribute towards its success. Likewise, our entire board is committed to moving the PEAK Program forward and will strive to earn even greater support from the communities on the North Olympic Peninsula.”

Executive board member Katherine Baril is a strong advocate for offering leadership development opportunities on the North Olympic Peninsula. According to Turissini, “The PEAK Program would not exist today had it not been for Katherine’s intervention and initiative. In its present form, PEAK is the result of many years of exploration and planning by numerous groups and individuals who shared a vision for leadership on the North Olympic Peninsula. I discovered the common denominator in all these efforts was Katherine Baril.”

Ms. Baril states, “It is a wonderful thing to see a dream transformed into reality. The 2008-2009 PEAK Leadership Program was just the beginning. If the PEAK Program continues at its present rate of community participation and support, then I expect this effort will continue well into the future. The 2009-2010 PEAK Leadership Program is just the next step toward enhancing the leadership capacity of Clallam and Jefferson Counties and realizing our regions greatest and richest leadership potential.”

Like Murray, Calhoun, and Parker are also graduates of AgForestry, which the statewide p rogram has also offered its endorsement of the PEAK Leadership effort. Both McGinty and Gannet are members of the first graduating class of PEAK Leaders.

Ms. Gannett said her 10-month experience as a PEAK Leader is what motivated her to continue her participation as a member of the PEAK Board.  “I want everyone to experience what I have through the PEAK Program. It broadened and added dimension to my perspectives of the North Olympic Peninsula; some assumptions were tossed out, while new insights and knowledge enhanced what I already thought we knew. Sharing the challenges and gifts of each community has been both inspirational and aspirational.

“The network of colleagues and friends that I gained through the PEAK Leadership Program inspires the possibilities of dialogue and collaboration to resolve the mutual concerns of each of the unique communities of our region. Having listened and learned from each other, it’s exhilarating to think of our working together, each bringing a unique perspective, to meet the challenges of region. This is something want to see this program continue and for many generations to come,” Gannet said.

Ms. McGinty claims the PEAK Leadership Program transformed her life, helped her to appreciate the importance of being involved in her local community, and gave her the confidence to launch her own business. She is excited about serving on the PEAK Board, but she is especially looking forward to inspiring future PEAK Leaders as they too become more aware of what they can accomplish as leaders in their own communities.

In addition to oversight by the PEAK Board, the original Advisory Committee has agreed to maintain its role through 2010. The advisory committee, comprised of of key decision makers in the two county region, has been with PEAK since its inception in March 2008. Turissini notes, “This group has not only provided valuable insights and advice, but they were also instrumental in helping to sustain the first year program, including offering technical support, program sponsorships, and direct involvement as speakers and hosts. I’m thrilled to have their continued support!”

The PEAK Leadership Advisory Committee

1. +Katherine Baril, Port Townsend, director, WSU Jefferson County Extension and EDC Team Jefferson
2. *Susan Bauer, Sequim, director, Peninsula Development District
3. John Brewer, Port Angeles, publisher, Peninsula Daily News
4. Larry Crockett, Port Townsend, Executive Director, Port of Port Townsend
5. Vic Dirksen, Port Townsend, CEO, Jefferson Healthcare
6. Eric Lewis, Port Angeles, CEO, Olympic Medical Ctr.
7. Kyle Montgomery, Port Ludlow, Expeditors-Seattle
8. Thomas Opstad, Port Townsend, Superintendent, Port of Port Townsend
9. +Meri Parker, Neah Bay, President, Ozett Associates, LLC
10. Bruce Paul, Forks, co-owner, Forks Outfitter, Forks Chamber President
11. Linda Rotmark, Port Angeles, Executive Director, Clallam Co. EDC
12. Michelle Sandoval, Port Townsend, mayor, City of Port Tow nsend
13. *Samantha Trone, Port Angeles, review planning engineer, City of Port Townsend
14. +Bill Wise, Port Townsend, chair, EDC Team Jefferson

(Newer committee members noted by an asterisk . A “+” indicates the person was a part of the original advisory committee but now serves on the board of directors)

The “PEAK” in Leadership stands for Purposeful, Effective, Authentic and the Keystone of quality leaders. The objective of the program is to invest in leadership that comprehends the complexities and interconnectivity of our North Olympic Peninsula communities. The program accomplishes this through a series of 10, once-a-month community- or topic- focused learning sessions held on site, at different locations throughout the two-county region. The program is geared toward those who want to increase their personal and professional development, as well as gain a deeper appreciation of others and the skills and dynamics of collaborative leadership. The enhanced leadership skills acquired through participation in the PEAK program benefits employers, businesses, governments, organizations, local communities, the region, and beyond.

Up to 25 participants will be selected for the PEAK Leadership Class of 2010. Those interested in participating this year must submit their application by the end of the workday, Mon., August 3, in order to guarantee consideration for 2009-2010. Final selections for 2009-2010 will be announced in late August. Application forms are available for download at http://peakleadershipnw.net/apply-peak-2010, or upon request to info@peakleadershipnw.net or (360) 301-4134.

PEAK Leadership Class 1

The FIRST to reach the summit of PEAK Leadership that is
Purposeful, Effective, Authentic and the Keystone of quality leaders!

PEAK Leaders, seated from left: Jan Gannett, Sequim, WitZend Solutions, retired Micrsoft; Julie Hatch, Port Angeles, Vice President, Key Bank; Becky McGinty, Port Angeles, Owner, BSG Enterprises. Pictured, from back left: Bill LeMaster, Port Townsend, Co-Owner, Lehani’s Deli, Port Townsend Planning Commission; Samantha Trone, Port Angeles, Development Review Engineer, City of Port Townsend; Krista Francis, Port Angeles, Director of Student Finance and Enrollment, Peninsula College; Alisha Merriman, Port Townsend, Dispatcher, Jeff Com 911; Aaron Nygaard, Port Angeles, Director, Upward Bound, Peninsula College; Dale Holiday, Port Angeles, Associate Planner, Clallam County Courthouse. Embedded, left, pictured from top: Greg Good, Port Angeles, Executive Director, North Olympic Land Trust; Norm MacLeod, Port Townsend, Owner, Gaelic Wolf Consulting; Carla Meyer, Port Townsend, Operations Manager, Jefferson Transit.

PEAK Class 1 Paves the Way for 2009-2010 PEAK Participants

NORTH OLYMPIC PENINSULA –

Ten months ago, on September 25, 2008, the premiere class of 12 PEAK Leadership participants convened in Neah Bay for its first session, the “Starting Point of Leadership”. The PEAK Leadership Program is pleased to announce the PEAK Leaders Class of 2009 successfully completed its journey on Saturday, June 27, 2009, thereby, also being the first to reach the summit of Purposeful, Effective, Authentic and the Keystone of quality leadership! The class, joined by family, friends, and other well-wishers, marked the occasion with a final commencement ceremony at the at the Incubator at Lincoln Center in Port Angeles.

Deeming the PEAK Leadership Program’s first year a “resounding success”, Executive Director Danille Turissini announced that up to 25 participants will be selected for the 2009-10 PEAK Leader Class II. The PEAK Leadership Program seeks out candidates who are experienced enough to have demonstrated leadership, who want to increase their personal and professional leadership capacity, who want to gain a deeper appreciation of others and the skills and dynamics of collaborative leadership.

Likewise, PEAK Leaders are equipped to serve as catalysts, capable of effectively preparing for and responding to today’s changing social, political, demographic and natural environments. The program accomplishes this through a series of once-a-month learning sessions held at different locations throughout the North Olympic Peninsula and beyond. According to Turissini, the enhanced leadership skills acquired through participation in the PEAK Leadership Program benefits employers, businesses, governments, organizations, and nearly every facet or our local and regional communities.

During the 2008-09 PEAK Leadership Program year, the class benefitted from the experiences and perspectives offered by community representatives and residents of Neah Bay, Brinnon, Quilcene, Forks, Port Townsend, Sequim, Jamestown S’Klallam, Seattle, Olympia, and Port Angeles. By design, every class of PEAK Leaders will have the benefit of learning from these and other communities as they develop meaningful positive relationships, understand the complexities of our communities, and learn how to unleash the innovative and creative energies needed for economic, environmental and sustainable growth.

Those interested in participating in the 2009-2010 PEAK Leadership Program must apply by Monday, August 3, 2009, in order to be considered. Representation from all jurisdictions throughout the the two-county region will be sought, including the public, private, non-profit or community service interests of the area. Applications are available for download at http://peakleadershipnw.net/apply-peak-2010/ or upon request to info@peakleadershipnw.net or by calling (360) 301-4134. Qualified applicants will be interviewed by the PEAK Leadership Selection Committee, with final selections announced in late August. The 2009-2010 PEAK Leadership 10-month series will begin on Thurs, September 30, 2009.

The mission of the PEAK Program is to foster leaders who are purposeful, effective, authentic, and who exemplify the keystone of quality leadership. It is geared toward those who want to increase their personal and professional development, as well as gain a deeper appreciation of the skills and dynamics of collaborative leadership.

The program provides emerging and existing leaders with the unique opportunity to gain first-hand information and a deeper understanding of the complexities and interconnectivity of our communities on the North Olympic Peninsula. The program accomplishes this through a series of once-a-month community- or topic- perspective learning sessions held on site, at different locations throughout the two-county region.

Among other things, participants are required to fulfill a small-group project that will focus on a significant challenge facing our communities. The professional development and collaborative aspects of the program help to foster a common approach and deeper understanding of the leadership skills and dynamics of effective leadership.

The PEAK Leadership Program launched its premiere class in September 2008 with 12 participants who will graduate this June. Up to 25 participants will be selected for 2009-2010 class, representing the public, private, non-profit or community service interests of the area. Representation from all jurisdictions throughout the the two-county region will be sought, including Neah Bay, Brinnon, Queets, Port Townsend, and all points in between.

Those interested in referring a participant to the PEAK Leadership Program are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. The deadline for referrals has been extended to July 1, 2009, followed by an application and interview process and final selections announced in early August.

Candidate submissions can also be emailed to nominate@peakleadershipnw.net, and include name, title, affiliation, and contact information for both yourself and the nominee. Interested persons are also welcome to refer themselves. There is no financial obligation to those who recommend someone to the program. Candidate referral forms are also available upon request by email or by calling (360) 301-4134.

For more information, please contact the PEAK Leadership Director Danille Turissini at danille@peakleadershipnw.net or (360) 301-4134.

The Entrepreneurial Institute - Entrepreneurial Challenge 2009 awarded $1000 to Becky McGinty, owner, BSG Enterprises, based in Port Angeles, for her winning business plan. BSG Enterprises is a bookkeeping service dedicated to “creating calm and order out of your financial chaos”.

We are proud to have Becky as a member of the PEAK Leadership Class of 2008-2009! Way to go Becky!

The House Resolution was presented to each of the PEAK Leaders in correlation with the group’s two-and-a-half day visit to the State Capitol in March. According to PEAK Leadership Director and Project Coordinator Danille Turissini, this honor was well deserved. “Participating in the PEAK Program is a significant personal and professional investment on the part of the PEAK Leaders. Not only do they commit their time and resources in order to participate, but they also open themselves up to the kind of perspective adjustments and transformational change that will be an asset to our communities and the region. Giving of oneself in this way is a quality of leadership we can all take pride in. In fact,” Turissini said, “that is precisely the point of the House Resolution and an opinion that is shared by our elected state representatives.”

In a written statement about her encounter with the PEAK Leaders, Representative Kessler stated, “Clallam and Jefferson Counties will benefit greatly from the PEAK Leadership Program, which teaches valuable collaboration, communication, and decision-making skills to community leaders. After meeting PEAK participants this session, I am convinced we in Olympia could learn a thing or two from them.”

Likewise, Representative Van De Wege added, “In the midst of what has been a very somber and difficult legislative session, it was refreshing to meet so many bright and talented PEAK Leadership participants. Their energy and enthusiasm will serve the communities of the North Olympic Peninsula very well.”

The theme of the Olympia trip was “Dynamic Leadership” and that it was, according to PEAK Leadership Director Danille Turissini. “As expected, Olympia was fast paced, a topical smorgasbord, logistically challenging, full of surprises and just about everything was subject to change. That was the whole point, well, at least logistically.”

While in Olympia the focus was state government and public policy and was intended as a training exercise for navigating the legislative process and the campus grounds. The group also had the opportunity to get acquainted with the entire 24th Legislative District delegation, including Reps. Kessler and Vandewege, and their respective legislative assistants, Samantha Casne and Linda Barnfather also spent some time explaining their roles and responsibilities. Across the rotunda on the Senate side, the PEAK Leaders convened with Senator Jim Hargrove and his Senior Legislative Assistant Patsy Feeley.

Like his colleagues in the House, Senator Hargrove was pleased to meet the PEAK Leaders and expressed appreciation for their participation in the program. He said, “These outstanding individuals in the PEAK Leadership program are important for the coast and Peninsula. Our communities need strong leadership and strong community involvement – each of these people embody both of those things.”

Among other things, the PEAK Leaders also heard from Lt. Governor Brad Owen; Lynn Longan, regional representative for CTED, Community Trade and Economic Development; Lori Anderson, Public Disclosure Commission; and House Page Supervisor Cassidy Rehwaldt. Mike Bay, Vice President of Programming for TVW, and Jennifer Huntley, Host of TVW’s The Impact, presented a professional development piece on working with the media. Likewise, Brian Dirks, Communications Director for Lt. Governor Owen, joined by John Sattagast, Product Coordinator and Public Information Officer for the House Republican Caucus, offered a seminar on “Tailoring the Message — Old School Enters the New Media”.

Turissini said, “I wanted the participants to get a real time sense of the inner workings and chaordic atmosphere of a legislative session. Mostly, I wanted to facilitate the reciprocal relationships that would be most meaningful to both the PEAK Leaders and our legislative team in Olympia. It’s important to build and maintain those relationships. In fact, it’s all about the relationships! If for no other reason, I wanted the PEAK Leaders to walk away from Olympia with a clear understanding of their own importance and responsibility in the process. The legislative process is about teamwork and we as constituents are an integral part of that team.”

The PEAK Leadership Program is currently accepting candidate referrals for the PEAK Leadership Class of 2009-2010. For more information, please contact Turissini at (360) 301-4134 or danille@peakleadershipnw.net.