Board and Staff Member in Academy’s Graduating Class
Pictured are (L to R); Rick Gerety, Freedom’s Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors; Victor Cryan, Director, Corporate and Professional Training at Harford Community College; and Bob Wehland, Freedom Vice President, Business Banking and Business Development.
The Harford Leadership Academy (HLA) is a Community-Development program, co-sponsored by Harford Community College and the Harford County Chamber of Commerce. The Academy is designed to promote the development of existing and emerging leaders and to create a committed, involved, and diverse network of leaders in Harford County.
In addition to this year’s Academy graduates — VP of Business Banking Bob Wehland and Board member Rick Gerety — several other Freedom employees are HLA graduates. These include Mike MacPherson, President/CEO (2000); Dawn Hamilton, Lending Program Manager (2005); Patrice Ricciardi, Business Development Specialist (2013); and Sue Manning, Business Development Specialist (2014). Additional Freedom board members who are HLA graduates include George Heidelmaier (2000); and Ronnie Davis (2009).
More than 700 individuals have completed this outstanding program, including leaders representing the areas of business and industry, education, government and civic organizations. Attendees complete thirteen sessions on the topics how government works; economic development and planning for the future; education and workforce development; agriculture and the environment; ethical leadership; public safety; emergency response; healthcare; Aberdeen Proving Ground-focused social issues; volunteerism and personal vision; leadership; meeting with county administration; and Academy wrap-up.
Congratulations to this year’s Academy graduates!