I was deeply honored when my employer invited me to participate in the Leadership Cayuga Program. For 13 years I have worked in Cayuga County but only in the past few months have I come to truly “know” the county where I spend so many of my waking hours.

Leadership Cayuga broadens the participants' horizons in many ways. We have learned first-hand about local government, board member responsibilities, history and education. Our group has toured many of the local businesses and learned about the vital role of each in our local economy. We now have a better understanding of the educational system and opportunities offered by BOCES. Through our scavenger hunt activities we have been able to explore and discover aspects of Cayuga County we had previously known little about or hadn't known existed. While working on our group projects and presentations we have learned paramount lessons about ourselves and working with others.

Most importantly, I have had the opportunity to meet and get to know twenty-four outstanding individuals who are also in the Leadership Cayuga Class of 2008. Our paths may not have crossed if it wasn't for this program and many new friendships have evolved. I consider myself very fortunate to have been a part of the Leadership experience.

Janet J. Haines

Skaneateles

Haines is office manager of the Fred L. Emerson Foundation Inc.