A YEAR IN REVIEW from Heather Hunt, NEXUS Director
As I write this, we are in the middle of a world pandemic and uncertain of what the future may look like. Throughout this, I have learned to appreciate what’s important, value relationships, and leaders learn to adapt with change. Through the COVID-19 era, I have had the privilege to witness this year’s class lean on each through the relationships they have built over the past ten months. Members of the NEXUS Network offered assistance so the program could move forward and our corporate partners continue to lead our city through uncertain times.
These past few months looked a little different for the Class of 2020, but they continued to be connected with each other through ZOOM, Careerquo, etc. This year’s class had the opportunity to learn from many key leaders that spoke at the monthly sessions, all sharing personal experiences and the underlying principles that motivate them to lead. A few messages that stood out include Emily Callahan, Chief Marketing Officer for ALSAC / St. Jude who encouraged mentors and proteges to “Find Your Voice.” Donald Comer, Staff VP & Operations Analyst for FedEx Corporation asked class participants to “Establish what success looks like on the front end” and Jay Papasan, Author & Executive Speaker challenged the participants to “THINK Big – THINK Specific.” We had many other outstanding speakers this past year who encouraged the Class of 2020.
The NEXUS IN MOTION event continues to grow and represent what NEXUS is about. The event offered direct networking for the Class of 2020, NEXUS Alumni, and NEXUS Partner STS Enterprise students. Round table discussions, led by NEXUS Alumni who are experts in their fields, on selected topics provided valuable face time and personal interaction among members of the NEXUS Network. This year’s event was hosted at Crosstown Concourse in the Church Health’s Community Room and the keynote speaker was Jennie Robbins, Chief Financial Officer for Church Health.
It is so important for NEXUS to continue to engage and equip members of the NEXUS Network through special events offered throughout the year. Each fall, the anticipated NEXUS Night Out event takes place and provides a true nexus for the current class, alumni, and partners to take time to be together, reunite, and connect. Special thanks to Norma and Kem Wilson for hosting this enjoyable event at their home. NEXUS hosted several workshops led by Andrew Geiselmann on the topic of Change and a series of workshops understanding the Enneagram presented by NEXUS Board member Katie West.
No one could have dreamed what would happen this past year. I am thankful that NEXUS will be here when the world gets back to normal and I’m confident we will be stronger together. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for the NEXUS program, recent graduates, members of the NEXUS Network, and future participants as we begin recruitment for the Class of 2021.
