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Servant Leadership at VARC: Two VARC Officers Graduate From Viterbo Servant Leadership Training

  • sphillips974
  • 20 hours ago
  • 2 min read
Shelby Neubauer (Director of Client Services) receiving her Nonprofit Leadership Development Certificate from Viterbo University presenters
Shelby Neubauer (Director of Client Services) receiving her Nonprofit Leadership Development Certificate from Viterbo University presenters

LA CROSSE, WI.—On April 31, two directors from VARC proudly graduated with Nonprofit Leadership Development Certificates from Viterbo University, back at the start of May. Shelby Croell Neubauer, Director of Client Services, and Risa Ashton, Director of Program Development, marked this significant milestone by presenting their capstone projects alongside 14 other dedicated nonprofit leaders from the region.


This six-month professional development program, now in its third year, is a collaborative effort between the La Crosse Area Community Foundation and Viterbo University. It’s designed to enhance leadership capabilities within the local nonprofit sector by focusing on essential elements like organizational leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and community engagement.


The proof of VARC's commitment to Servant Leadership is in the careful investment it makes in its own workforce. "Servant Leadership doesn't end with our directors," says Liz Filter, President & CEO of VARC. Managers are sent to Viterbo to pursue Servant Leadership-specific training modules, and employees at all levels have some degree of exposure to these Servant Leadership practices at their respective divisions. Other divisions embrace these principles through the form of activities, such as VARC Racine Division's Servant Leadership book club.


As Shelby and Risa completed their training, they were welcomed into a network of professionals equipped with the insights and skills needed to tackle modern challenges faced by nonprofit organizations. Their certification not only symbolizes their personal achievement but also signifies a strong commitment to the mission of VARC and the community it serves.


Liz Filter (President & CEO) showing up in support of Shelby Neubauer (Director of Client Services) for the final capstone presentation required of the course.
Liz Filter (President & CEO) showing up in support of Shelby Neubauer (Director of Client Services) for the final capstone presentation required of the course.

“VARC is incredibly proud of Shelby and Risa for their dedication and hard work,” said the organization on VARC's social media. “Their journey through the Nonprofit Leadership Development Program has equipped them with valuable knowledge that will directly benefit our staff and clients, enhancing our overall mission.” With a focus on servant leadership, Shelby and Risa are poised to implement innovative strategies and foster a more supportive environment for both staff and clients at VARC. Their training will enable them to lead with empathy, promote collaboration, and optimize resources, creating a ripple effect that enhances the quality of services provided.

 

The invaluable insights gained from their experience are poised to transform VARC's operations, empowering employees to engage more effectively with clients, and ultimately driving better outcomes across the board. As these visionary leaders set their sights on the future, VARC continues to solidify its commitment to excellence and community impact, buoyed by the expertise of its devoted leadership.

 

Congratulations to Shelby Croell Neubauer and Risa Ashton for their accomplishment! Their hard work and dedication to servant leadership will no doubt help to usher in a new era of growth and success for VARC, as well as the communities it serves.


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