It's all about leadership

Students attending the year-long Leadership Potter County class are, from left: front -- Michelle Filer, Carol Spaulding, Deanna Sherman and Zach Buckler; middle -- Todd Brown, Eric Petsch, Samantha Vosick, Colleen Ramsey, Brad Cole, Emily Bach, Will Daniels, Mike Harvey and Autumn Harter; back -- Bill Rees, David Brooks, Joel Zink, Joe Kaziska and Rich Esposito; missing -- Rachel Forsythe.

Nineteen Potter County residents who care about their communities have been attending a cram course on leadership since the beginning of the year.

When they emerge from the comprehensive training, they'll be better able to step into influential roles in business, education, government and civic organizations.

"Leadership Potter County" is one of the most ambitious programs ever provided by the Potter County Education Program.

Students ranging in age from 17 to 70-plus have been studying the region's educational system; communication and media; economy and workforce dynamics; health care services and employment opportunities; recreation and tourism; disaster preparedness, community service and many other topics.

Students were attracted to the year-long course out of their desire to make a difference in their communities. They're learning about economic issues and other challenges facing the region, which organizations can influence their communities, and trends that will impact the future.

Presentations during class time are supplemented by out-of-class preparation and opportunities for individual learning. Tuition for the class was $750; some students were able to attend as the result of donations from area businesses.

Enrolled in Leadership Potter County are: Michelle Filer, Colleen Ramsey, Rachel Forsythe and Samantha Vosick, Charles Cole Memorial Hospital; Carol Spaulding and Deanna Sherman, Potter County Education Council; Zach Buckler, student at Coudersport Area High School; Todd Brown, Adelphia Communications; Eric Petsch, student at Northern Potter Area High School. Also, Brad Cole and Will Daniels, Buckler Transport; Emily Bach, student at Galeton Area High School; Mike Harvey and Joel Zink, students at Oswayo Valley Area High School; Autumn Harter, Pennsylvania Route 6 Heritage Assn.; Bill Rees, Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc.; David Brooks, Potter County Visitors Association; Joe Kaziska, Morgan AM&T; and Rich Esposito, Forsythe Solutions.