Program Sessions

Orientation & Leadership Concepts
Coordinators: Ryan O’Gorman, Danielle Watson

Orientation sets the parameters for the program and prepares the participant for the future sessions. Leadership Concepts is a combination of self-discovery and reflection, leadership styles, emotional intelligence, and communication. The class meets each other for the first time and begins the process of forming class bonds through a series of interactive exercises, discussions, and videos. Participants will also identify the issues and needs of the county.

Historical Rockland
Coordinators: Bob Baird, Craig Long

This session covers the settlement and formation of what is to become Rockland County and covers RC’s place in American History. This session takes you to significant historical places within the county and highlights unique local historical events that shaped our communities. This year, we will bring attention to New York State 250.

Multicultural Communities & Social Justice
Coordinators: Vivian England, Brooke Malloy

This session looks at the various communities that make up the rich fabric of Rockland and raises awareness and an increased appreciation of effective leadership in a culturally diverse community.

Economic Impact & Development
Coordinators: Debra Thomas, Deborah Studnitzer, Al Samuels

This session examines the county’s economic landscape, Rockland’s impact and place in the greater Hudson Valley Region, and both opportunities and challenges — present and future — for businesses and non-profits alike.

Education & Workforce Development
Coordinators: Debra Thomas, Deborah Studnitzer

This session provides an overview of the public educational systems in the county from pre-K through adulthood and how these systems respond and relate to the existing and emerging workforce.

Healthcare & Emergency Services
Coordinators: Claudette Clarke, Kathy Fidlow

The changing world of healthcare impacts us all. Experts from throughout the region provide insight and understanding to the variety of developments that affect participants personally and professionally.

Arts & Culture
Coordinators: Robin Rosenberg, Daly Flanagan

This session explores a sample of the arts organizations and offerings in Rockland. Participants learn about the vibrant arts community, their missions, and how they impact the county.

Environmental Rockland
Coordinators: Bill Madden, Sophia Salis

In this session, participants learn how environmental changes impact the county, with a focus on conservation, green energy, and recycling, and natural resources.

Law Enforcement & Justice Systems
Coordinators: Chris Bax, JoAnne Fratianni, Thomas Hendrickson

This interactive session offers an up-close look at the various layers of law enforcement agencies and the justice systems within the county.

Government, Politics & Public Policy
Coordinators: Beth Davidson, Jesse Malowitz

Who runs Rockland? During this deep dive into county politics, participants will meet elected officials at the county, town, and village levels, along with political party leadership and activists. Panelists and presenters will outline their roles in leadership, the biggest issues they face and ways to get involved. The day concludes with a collaborative team exercise.

Rockland Resources
Coordinators: Katie Ross, Candice Whatley

Participants gain an understanding of what resources are available, how they are accessed, and how a multitude of systems work to meet the needs of those who reside and work in the county. The day starts with a focus on the later stages of the sequential intercept model with a focus on the justice system, and branches into the myriad systems and supports in the county.

Making an Impact
Coordinators: Ryan O’Gorman

This session brings the Leadership Rockland experience full circle. Participants reflect on what they have learned and experienced, and what actions they will take, individually and/or organizationally, to affect the change they hope to realize.