May 1, 2025
NAFI CT-NY-RI proudly celebrated a major milestone this month as the first cohort of its Leadership Development Program completed their capstone presentations, marking the culmination of a powerful journey of professional growth, mentorship, and connection.
Launched to support and develop emerging leaders from across the organization's array of human services programs, the Leadership Development Program began with a dynamic three-day in-person workshop series. Facilitated by the agency’s Training Institute team and senior leaders, the kickoff brought together staff from Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island to explore foundational leadership skills and foster meaningful peer connections.
“This program was designed not only to build leadership capacity, but to cultivate the kind of relationships and reflective practice that sustain leaders in the challenging work we do every day,” said Lynn Bishop, Executive Director. “At the capstone, it was clear that growth had happened - not just in skills, but in confidence, voice, and community.”
Following the initial retreat, each participant was paired with a seasoned mentor to guide them through six months of applied learning. Leaders set SMART goals and worked closely with their mentors to navigate real-time challenges and opportunities in their work -truly a case of leadership in action.
The capstone event served as both a celebration and a powerful reflection point. Participants delivered short presentations tracing their leadership journeys, sharing insights, obstacles, and breakthroughs. One participant noted, “Now I realize being genuine is not only okay - it’s essential. I plan to embrace being a leader who’s real, reflective, and slightly awkward but always human.”
The event also featured an inspiring keynote address by Chief Shelly Carter of the Hamden Fire Department, whose trailblazing career as a woman of color in a traditionally male-dominated field offered a compelling message of resilience, authenticity, and purpose. Chief Carter urged attendees to “believe in yourself, persist when it's hard, and stay focused on your mission- especially when the road gets tough.”
As the first cohort closes this chapter, their reflections and connections signal the lasting impact of this investment in leadership. The program has not only equipped participants with new skills and perspectives but has sown the seeds for a strong, values-driven leadership culture across the NAFI Tri-State Alliance.
For media inquiries or to learn more about NAFI CT’s Training and Professional Development Consultation Services, please contact: TrainingInstitute@nafi.com