The Red River Valley (RRV) Emerging Leadership Program (ELP) celebrated its most recent cohort of leaders and a program milestone this spring. A dinner and recognition program at University of Minnesota Crookston recognized participants and celebrated the program’s 40th year.

The celebration included a slide presentation narrated by Jody Horntvedt, Extension educator for the program, who shared the history and journey of the program spanning 40 years. Horntvedt also highlighted major milestones and invited guests to light a candle at the point where they were connected to the program. Six special guests that evening were part of creating the program in 1985, and several alumni who had significant leadership roles were also present. By the end of the presentation, the banquet hall was filled with the light of candles lit by nearly 100 regional leaders.

Lowry family recognized

Recognized that evening were the most recent program participants, Michael and Sarah Boll, Lowry.  They, along with individuals from across the region, have taken part in educational sessions since October 2023.

Michael works for Rainbow Rider; they are a public transit agency that provides service in Douglas, Pope, Stevens, Todd, Grant and Traverse counties. His role there is information technology and operations support. Michael also owns and operates Boll PC Repair, a small computer repair shop out of their home.

Sarah serves as the director of Safe Families for Children in Minnesota, an organization that connects families in crisis with local volunteers who provide family-like social support and resources to help families thrive. She also facilitates ACE Interface, HOPE Framework and QPR Suicide prevention training as she is passionate about building resilient communities that can support each other. 

Sarah and Michael are the parents of three daughters who are involved in many sports, arts and faith activities. 

During the educational sessions, Michael and Sarah networked with leaders from across the region and gained insight on personal leadership styles, communication, facilitating effective meetings, leading change, and inspiring volunteerism in their communities.