For many, the turn of the calendar is a fresh start to a new year. As I counted down to the New Year with my family on New Year’s Eve, I could not help but reflect on the achievements of 2017 and the goals set for 2018. Like many, I have set my own goals and resolutions for 2018 and there is one I am particularly excited about.

Developing emerging leaders is a true passion of mine. As an avid reader, I constantly find myself delving into a variety of leadership focused and inspirational books. This year, I have decided to combine two of my greatest joys, inspiring growth in others and learning as a part of my goals for 2018. I am starting a Leadership Book Club for staff to promote personal and professional growth. The first book is Simon Sinek’s Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action. Simon’s philosophy explains that at the core of everything we do is our purpose or the “why” for coming to work each day. Our “why” is to inspire, empower, and support people to achieve their full potential. It is my hope that through this experience of learning together, we will grow as leaders, encourage thoughtful discussions, and ultimately become change agents to better meet the needs of people with developmental disabilities.

In 2017, we focused on strengthening person-centered thinking with people we serve as part of our strategic plan. Cornell University describes person-centered planning as “focusing on the people and their needs by putting them in charge of defining the direction for their lives, not on the systems that may or may not be available to serve them.” This year, we are incorporating it into our day-to-day practices. As the leader of a group of talented professionals, it is my goal to always be person-centered, empowering the team I work with to be leaders and choose their own professional development paths, knowing this will lead to better outcomes for people served.

As you step into 2018, I encourage you all to find your “why” and take action!

Happy New Year!