GILLETTE, Wyo. — The Campbell County Board of Commissioners this morning recognized the county’s Grants Specialist Kristin Young for her achievements and work for the community and, in particular, for her graduation from the National Association of Counties’ High Performance Leadership Academy.
The academy is a 12-week online program that equips frontline county government professionals with leadership skills to benefit their communities, according to the National Association of Counties’ website. The academy focuses on five practical skills: lead, organize, collaborate, communicate and deliver. The academy targets current and emerging leaders, though any county government employee can participate. The cost begins at $1,995, though discounts may apply, the website said.
One of Young’s assignments was to create and deliver a leadership oath, which she did at the meeting.
Her oath is the following:
“As a servant leader, I will strive to support the growth and development of my colleagues and community partners, such as our human service agencies and nonprofits that support Campbell County services to the public; help others realize the importance of their contributions to their individual success and the success of Campbell County as an organization; create an environment supportive of innovation, empowerment and holistic wellbeing; and demonstrate characteristics, such as empathy, stewardship, integrity and commitment to my colleagues and those we serve.”
Administrative Director Denton Knapp said Young is managing grants for the county, training county departments’ grants specialists, working on the county’s audit, rewriting county grant policy and more. Young was also primarily responsible for CARE’s participation in Operation Green Light, Knapp said. The green light signals to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces that they are seen, appreciated, and supported, according to the Campbell County Board of Commissioners.
Campbell Board of Commissioners Chair Colleen Faber said Young diligently looks for publicly and privately funded grants, identifies any issues the county might have with grants and makes sure the county is in compliance with them.
Commissioner Del Shelstad said Young does a really good job of helping departments find grants that are useful and explaining grants’ requirements.
Campbell County Commissioners Jan. 4 voted to make Faber the chair. Former chairman Del Shelstad said he would prefer to step down before the regularly scheduled vote for leader of the board.
