Neighborhood Leadership Academy Examines Shared Community History as Key to Developing Impactful Leaders During Recent Session

Leadership Anne Arundel’s Neighborhood Leadership Academy recently convened a session focused on shared community history, highlighting the importance of understanding the past in shaping effective, forward-thinking leaders.

The session brought participants into key historic spaces and community sites across Annapolis, where they engaged in discussions, guided learning experiences, and leadership reflections that deepened their awareness of local history and its lasting impact on present-day community development.

Participants took part in a guided tour of the historic Old Fourth Ward led by guest facilitator Janice Hayes-Williams, beginning at First Baptist Church and including a stop at the Stanton Community Center. Hayes-Williams provided insight into the consequences of past systemic harms and the lasting impact of community advocacy.

 The group subsequently traveled to the Wiley H. Bates Legacy Center for the remainder of the day’s programming. There, sessions continued with remarks from Will Rowel, including a presentation on the legacy of the center’s namesake, Wiley H. Bates, and a leadership case study on the Annapolis Juneteenth Festival presented by Bishop Craig Coates.

The session also featured small group discussions with Neighborhood Leadership Academy alumni, including Jenese Jones, Lovell Offer, and Comacell Brown Jr., where participants gained practical insight into leadership pathways and community engagement.

In a statement, Leadership Anne Arundel emphasized that the session underscored the importance of understanding history in all its complexity while recognizing the continued efforts of activists and stakeholders working toward meaningful change. 

Leadership Anne Arundel’s mission is to equip individuals from diverse backgrounds with the tools, resources, and networks needed to become proactive leaders. Through programs like the Neighborhood Leadership Academy, the organization aims to develop grassroots leaders who improve quality of life in Anne Arundel County by bridging divides and fostering collaboration for the common good. 

The organization is hosting it's 6th annual food collection on April 18. For more information, use the QR code in the flyer below, visit: www.leadershipaa.org, or email: info@leadershipaa.org.