Inspiring Leaders, 11 Years in a Row

With a new year comes a new LAX Coastal Leadership Academy class—the 11th Annual LAX Coastal Leadership Academy class, that is. And what does that mean? It means that I got to spend an evening with some great people on a boat.

Making lifelong friends through Leadership Academy!

Each year, our Leadership Academy program starts off with a bang by hosting the Leadership Academy Reunion and Interest Mixer Cruise. Past graduates mingle with potential participants aboard a Hornblower Cruises & Events yacht as we sail around the marina in style—with lots of laughter and drinks in hand. As I wandered between the decks I was greeted by plenty of familiar faces. Hugs and how are you’s were broken up with my endless questioning of “What year did you graduate?” as I did my best to pair up recent graduates with early-takers so that everyone could discuss who was the best class. Interested parties watched in amusement and intrigue as excited chatter arose over “What’s your leadership style?” and “When did they start touring the El Segundo Air Force Base?” While no official decision was made over the best Leadership Academy class, it was obvious from all involved that each year was a success.

We are proud to say that, for the past 10 years, every Leadership Academy graduate has walked away from the program with stronger skills to elevate their career and professional success. You don’t just need to take our word for it, however. Trisha Murakawa, of Murakawa Communications and a 2016-2017 Leadership Academy graduate, told us:

Leadership Academy gave us a close up and behind-the-scenes view of civic and community operations. We had meaningful discussions with high level policy makers at City Hall, the airport, the transportation operations center, wastewater treatment plant and with the top military leadership at the LA Air Force Base. The nine months went by way too fast and I wish I could do it all again!

Another recent graduate, Lu Casillas of Blend2Day, said:

The Leadership Program offered by LAX Coastal Chamber is time well spent. Was it worth the money? I can confirm that it definitely was! The course covered a lot of information, delivered in concise chunks that were easy to absorb. The structure was clear, logical, and effective. Obviously, a lot of thought and expertise went into designing it. But it wasn’t just about the new knowledge; the main benefits come from meeting leaders in the community and interacting with other participants.

Our 2016-2017 class tours the Ballona Wetlands

The LAX Coastal Chamber is dedicated to making our area a dynamic place to live, work, and play, and that is why we are so strongly committed to our Leadership Academy program. This seven-course program (limited to only 25 participants per year) is created for those interested in helping to propel our area forward and to contribute to the progress of the LAX Coastal community—and if that sounds like you, we want you to participate. Registration is easy, just learn more on our website or give us a call at 310.645.5151 to ask questions.

The LAX Coastal Leadership Academy program is an investment into your success, and it is one that we promise you won’t regret taking—you’ll only regret missing out.

Special thank you to this year’s Leadership Academy sponsor: Gateway Los Angeles.


 

Learn more about Leadership Academy Facilitator, Dr. Kevin Walsh

Leadership Academy Facilitator, Dr. Kevin Walsh

Dr. Kevin Walsh is our Leadership Academy Facilitator. He is the Founder and CEO of Global Community Enrichment (GCE), a Facilitator/Coach for Living As A Leader and a Channel Partner at Ken Blanchard Companies. Kevin’s expertise includes leadership development, executive coaching, non-profit board development, strategic organizational effectiveness, facilitation, curriculum design and team-building. Kevin has worked with executives and leaders in organizations worldwide, including: Cartoon Network, The Wonderful Company, US Doctors for Africa, American Express, and JP Morgan Chase.

Kevin earned his Doctorate of Psychology in Organizational Management and Consulting from Phillips Graduate University. He teaches at Phillips Graduate University, Rollins College, Loyola Marymount University and College of the Canyons. GCE’s clients include The Walt Disney Company, Los Angeles County Department of Health Services, FIJI Water, City of Hope and LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce.


 

Download the 2017-2018 Leadership Academy Brochure.

View photos from past Leadership Academy classes.

 

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