Earlier this spring, I had the opportunity to learn from Ben Winchester, who is a rural sociologist and senior research fellow at the University of Minnesota Extension's Center for Community Vitality. Ben spoke in Grinnell this spring about his research on the leadership demands in rural communities. 

According to his calculations, 1 out of 

every 24 adult residents in Poweshiek County needs to step up as a leader in a non-profit board position.

1 out of every 24! His research found that the demand for leaders is much higher per capita in small communities than it is in the cities.

Ben's research was specific to non-profit organizations, so just think if you add on other local elected positions like City Council and School Board. Finding enough people to fill all of those positions can be challenging! It's no wonder so many of you are serving on multiple boards of directors. 

July is the month that people may file for candidacy for the Grinnell-Newburg School District Board of Directors. Our school district is such a critical part of our community, and we need people interested in serving in leadership roles to consider running for the school board. There are four seats up for re-election in the September election:

1. At-Large

2. District 2

3. District 3

4. District 4

*Click for a map of the wards.

If you know of anyone that you think may make a great candidate for the school board, please encourage them to consider running. We'd also encourage you to run if you are personally interested. To declare your candidacy, you need to submit a nomination petition by Thursday, July 30. That's only a few weeks away! Click here for more details about running for school board. 

 ~Emily Counts