Berry Graduates from Leadership Dayton
MVCAP Deputy Chief Operating Officer Karen Berry graduated from Leadership Dayton last month.
The Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce program is dedicated to developing servant leaders for the benefit of the greater Dayton area and the chamber’s member organizations.
Each class completes a project aimed at helping the region. The 10-month program is the fourth oldest continuously operating community leadership program in the U.S., immersing participants in the many facets of our community.
Berry’s cohort collaborated with We Care Arts to create an art installation for the Foodbank, Inc.’s new Community Resource Center. We Care Arts designed the piece and prepared the framework while the cohort painted and dyed the muslin strips that became the finished project. The installation – unveiled during The Foodbank’s 50th Anniversary celebration and grand opening of the Community Resource Center – features two hands holding panels decorated with images of food. Berry said the art symbolizes both the experiences of neighbors and the strength of a caring community.
“I hope it reminds everyone who sees it that every person deserves dignity, that no one should face food insecurity alone, and that we can accomplish so much when we come together to support one another,” she added.
In a highly competitive process, class members are chosen from a cross-section of the community and represent the diversity of the region’s business and nonprofit leaders. The professional development program focuses on leadership, education, economic development, diversity, justice, the arts, government, health and human services.
Berry said the best part of the program was meeting people from many different backgrounds, industries and experiences. She also learned surprising things about the history of her hometown.
“Visiting organizations throughout the region and hearing directly from the people doing this work opened my eyes in ways I didn’t expect,” she said. “What started as a group of classmates quickly became a network of colleagues, collaborators, and friends who all care deeply about making our community stronger.”
“We are delighted for Karen and proud of this achievement,” said Chief Operating Officer Katie O’Donoghue Ly. “The meaningful investment of time and resources reflects MVCAP’s commitment to developing future leaders and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.”
Grateful for MVCAP’s support of professional development, Berry said Leadership Dayton renewed her commitment to serving others.
“Leadership Dayton gives you a deeper understanding of our community while introducing you to the people and organizations working every day to make it stronger,” she said. “It encourages you to see Dayton through a different lens and challenges you to think differently about leadership.”
