Dear Editor:

Leadership Tangipahoa is a class that is designed to develop leadership skills in emerging leaders in our community and provide each student with a broad knowledge of business, economic, governmental, social and support systems in Tangipahoa Parish.

I am privileged to be part of a class of 21 leaders in our community.

The class of 07-08 just completed our first session addressing “Leadership Competencies.”

The class was held at the Louisiana Department of Labor in Hammond.

The facility is used for training sessions and meetings. It is newly remodeled with state-of-the-art technology and comfortable accommodations.

“Leadership Competencies” delved into values, beliefs, and profiles that make effective leaders.

Being sensitive to the needs of your employees, effective communication skills, and diversity in the workplace were topics that were explored.

Creating a values-based vision, motivating employees to work for the vision and giving them the support they need to reach the vision is the leadership style that Leadership Tangipahoa promotes.

Lunch was at Tommy's Pizza. We had a room to ourselves and enjoyed good conversation.

Friendships and networking are being developed that will make for a better community.

We are touching on subjects that are tapping into our souls. We are brainstorming ways to make Tangipahoa an even greater place for our children and grandchildren.

After lunch, we completed a Core Values Inventory and shared our personal profiles. This instrument was valid in describing the values that people bring to their workplace.

The affirmation of our values was interesting. With the explanation of the different values profiles, we came to a deeper understanding of our coworkers' performance.

The most valuable asset of the tool is its use when hiring employees. Matching profiles to jobs can increase the quality of production.

The next topic on the agenda was Effective Communication. We learned skills in speaking, listening, and telephone communication.

These are life skills that must be developed in order for leaders to be successful. There is no doubt this will be one of the best professional development opportunities in my career.

I thank Father Ed Everitt, O.P., pastor of Holy Ghost Church, for sponsoring me in this endeavor. I thank and commend Glen Villalobos, executive coordinator, for his expertise and delivery of the information. He is the epitome of a “teacher.” He facilitates lessons that are thought provoking and life changing.

I am looking forward to the next class where we will explore the makings of our local government.

- Cathy LeBlanc, principal of Holy Ghost School Leadership Tangipahoa Class of 2008, Hammond