Written by Jenna Cullen, Class 41 

Edited by DeEtte Person, Class 41

Class 41 Launches with Connection, Courage and Community

On Friday, September 18, Class 41 officially launched its Scottsdale Leadership journey with a dynamic and engaging Welcome Day. Gathering at the Homestead at DC Ranch, participants were welcomed by Scottsdale Leadership co-founder Gary Shapiro, who shared the story of the organization's founding in 1986 and reflected on its lasting impact on both the Scottsdale community and the lives of program participants.

The morning continued with an interactive exploration of the Emergenetics Profile and Assessment Process. Facilitated by Merle Riepe, PhD, Class 30, the three-and-a-half-hour seminar provided participants with a deeper understanding of their individual thinking and behavioral preferences and how those preferences shape interactions with others. Through a series of engaging activities, Dr. Riepe helped class members interpret their personal profiles, recognize how their styles may emerge in different situations and identify strategies for building stronger, more collaborative relationships.

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In addition to gaining insight into their individual profiles, participants explored the collective characteristics of Class 41. While the class represents a broad range of thinking and behavioral attributes, the group demonstrated a particularly strong preference for the Social thinking attribute, reflecting a shared emphasis on relationships, empathy and team connection.

The afternoon session opened with an overview of team norms and communication expectations presented by Assistant Director, Dana Close before transitioning to an introduction to the Scottsdale Leadership Mentorship Program, presented by Bill Scarbrough, Class 31.  Participants then heard from Lori Schneider, Class 39, who reflected on the transformational role Scottsdale Leadership has played in her personal and professional life. Her remarks provided both inspiration and encouragement for the journey ahead. Among the many pieces of wisdom she shared with Class 41, one message resonated especially strongly: "You are going to leave here with courage."

The day concluded with the part that many participants had anticipated with a mix of excitement and some nerves: the 90-Second Commercials. Class members showcased their personalities, passions, and life experiences through a wide variety of approaches, including poems, songs, baked goods, photographs, and meaningful personal props. Despite the diversity of presentations, a common thread emerged: vulnerability. Each participant demonstrated a willingness to share not only their accomplishments and passions, but also the challenges, values and experiences that have shaped them.

The energy in the room was palpable as classmates cheered one another on and connected through stories of resilience, growth and purpose. By the end of the day, Class 41 had already begun to build the trust, authenticity and sense of community that will serve as the foundation for their Scottsdale Leadership experience in the months ahead.