We’re thrilled to welcome the seventh cohort of changemakers into the Leadership Learning Lab (LLL) — a regional initiative led by Rotary Charities of Traverse City in collaboration with other regional partners. The program brings together emerging and experienced leaders from across Otsego County and northern Michigan.
LLL is more than a leadership program — it’s a space for connection, growth, and collaboration. Over the next 10 months, these leaders will explore adaptive leadership, build community, and strengthen the organizations that serve our region.
This year’s cohort includes five outstanding leaders from Otsego County, joining a total of 74 participants from across northern Michigan.
“I believe this is a prime example of the power of regional partnerships. None of us have the time, talent, or treasure to pull off a program like this on our own, but by collaborating we are able to invest in 74 leaders — including five from Otsego County. Collectively, a $41,000 investment that will have promising ripple effects in our region.”
Dana Bensinger, Executive Director, Otsego Community Foundation
Meet the Cohort
Here are the five Otsego County leaders participating in this year’s Leadership Learning Lab:
- Ellen Templeton – Community Health Coordinator II, Health Department of Northern Michigan
- Charlie May – Healthy Aging Services Coordinator, Otsego County Commission on Aging
- Christy Walcott – Director of Marketing & Communications, Gaylord Area Convention & Tourism Bureau
- Ashley Hutchens – Marketing & Events Specialist, Gaylord Area Chamber of Commerce
- Tonya Ouillette – Office and Data Manager, Huron Pines
What Is the Leadership Learning Lab?
The Leadership Learning Lab invests directly in leaders as a way to strengthen their organizations and the communities they serve. It’s designed to help participants:
- Become more self-aware, adaptive, collaborative, and resilient
- Develop new skills for communication, collaboration, and time management
- Explore current topics and experiment with leading practices in the nonprofit, government, and mission-driven business sectors
- Gain a suite of practical tools and resources
- Build a network of support across northern lower Michigan
Participants engage in a 10-month journey that includes monthly learning sessions, Q&A forums, small group pods, individual reflection, and ongoing support — all designed to foster deep relationships and meaningful growth.
“LLL has been an incredible way for me to learn about Adaptive Leadership and collaboration. The thoughtful structure of this year-long learning lab really supported me in creating significant and important shifts in my leadership practices.”
— 2023 Cohort Participant
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The Leadership Learning Lab is a collaboration between Rotary Charities of Traverse City, the Frey Foundation, and multiple northern lower Michigan Community Foundations, including:
