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& CLA Community Leadership Academy MPA Masters of Public Administration Capstone Conference Assessment and Recommendations to the CLA Planning Committee Sonya Arnold, MPA Candidate Jessica Fowler, MPA Candidate Paul LaMancusa, MPA Candidate April 16, 2015

Capstone CLA MPA Report

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Page 1: Capstone CLA MPA Report

&

CLA

Community Leadership Academy

MPA

Masters of Public Administration Capstone

Conference Assessment and

Recommendations to the CLA

Planning Committee

Sonya Arnold, MPA Candidate

Jessica Fowler, MPA Candidate

Paul LaMancusa, MPA Candidate

April 16, 2015

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CLA and MPA: Conference Assessment

2

RESULTS IN BRIEF WHY WE PERFORMED THIS ASSESSMENT

The purpose of this project is to make recommendations to the CLA Planning Committee to ensure the effectiveness of CLA 2015. A need exists for CLA to collect feedback from past participants to aid in planning CLA 2015 and future conferences. Feedback gathered from participants concerns future topics of interest, as well as how they have implemented skills obtained from past conferences in their community. Also, the CLA planning committee requests suggestions for new models to implement the “networking” session of its conference.

WHAT WE FOUND

CLA has positively impacted past participants and their communities. However, the impact has been stronger on the individuals than their communities. Although participants stated that they had learned and developed skills at CLA, implementation was found to be a barrier. CLA has been effective in accomplishing its stated goals. Past participants are most interested in the topic of Citizen Engagement, although topics of interest are diverse. We found and explained four potential models for the networking session for CLA 2015. Of the four models, we recommend two.

WHAT WE RECOMMEND

It is recommended future sessions aim to empower and encourage individuals to take action in their communities. We highly recommend the topics of citizen engagement and rural governmental challenges as CLA 2015 topics. Additionally, water issues, entrepreneurial culture, food initiatives, drug impact on community, community attitudes, generational change, and presentation skills are of interest.

For the CLA 2015 networking session we recommend that CLA apply the rotating stations model as a first choice and the layered discussion model as a second choice. Both models are creative, can be performed with a large number of participants, and promote valuable and effective discussion among participants.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Cover Page 1 Executive Summary 2 Table of Contents 3 Background 4 Project Information & Scope 6 Methodology 7

Survey Methodology 7 Networking Methodology 7 Limitations 8

Findings 9 Quantitative 9 Qualitative 10 Networking Models 13 Recommendations 17 References 19 Appendix 20-37 Session Topic Categories 20-21 Survey 22-23 Survey Responses 24-29 Email Messages 30-34 Memorandum of Agreement 35-36

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BACKGROUND WVU Extension Service Community Resources and Economic Development present the Community Leadership Academy, in partnership with the W.Va. Community Development Hub, West Virginia Association of Counties, and County Commissioners’ Association of W.Va. 2013 marked the first year for the program since the Academy merged with the Local Government Leadership Academy in late 2012. The annual Community Leadership Academy helps emerging and established leaders identify and build on their community’s assets to take advantage of development issues in West Virginia and surrounding regions. The Academy provides local government officials with a solid foundation in public organizational and financial management. Participants include city and county officials, community volunteer leaders, Main Street program participants, Chamber of Commerce representatives, local business owners and local boards and commissions, or anyone else interested in helping their community grow. Topics emphasize enhancing personal leadership skills and providing an understanding of current, complex issues affecting communities. The Conference has stated the following goals:

To help emerging and established leaders understand, use, and

develop their community assets effectively.

To support robust community engagement and further community

growth.

To provide West Virginia’s local government officials and community

leaders with a solid foundation in public organizational and financial

management grounded in current complex issues affecting West

Virginia communities.

The Conference has taken place at two different locations in Morgantown WV. These locations include the Waterfront Hotel (2013) and Lakeview Resort (2014). Many participants travel from far distances to attend the conference and opt to stay in stay in overnight accommodations provided. CLA feature Keynote speakers at each of its events, which have included Ed Morrison and Douglas Smith. In addition to the Keynote speakers, other speakers host more intimate sessions and discuss more specific topics concerning the participants. All participants attend the keynote speaker presentations, while they have the option to choose amongst sessions offered during the breakout portions of the Conference. Breakout sessions cover diverse topics and in the past have included “Creative Community Development”, “Heritage Tourism in WV”, and “Developing Responsible Boards for Non-Profits”, just to name a few.

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CLA also includes an optional culinary tour of Morgantown and its surrounding community to participants, which has taken place the evening following the first day of the Conference. Also taking place during the evening for CLA is a networking session for participants where participants can collaborate with one another and share ideas.

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PROJECT INFORMATION

& SCOPE The CLA Planning Committee is in the process of organizing the 2015 Conference. In doing so, the CLA Planning Committee asked MPA students to complete this project as a requirement of their Capstone course, during the Spring 2015 semester. The goal of this project is to conduct a conference assessment to ensure future CLA conferences are meeting the CLA goals and participants’ expectations. CLA is in its third year and would like to assess the effectiveness of past programs and ensure that the future programs are covering relevant topics using effective methods. MPA Capstone students were asked to: 1) make recommendations on potential networking models to implement during the evening networking session: and 2) develop and implement a follow-up survey. The project objectives include:

1. Become familiar with the CLA though information sources including, but not

limited to, the CLA website, past participant evaluations, survey results.

2. Review 2014 conference networking topics and make recommendations

(approximately two) for the 2015 networking session.

3. Provide a listing of table topics and session facilitation process/methods for

the CLA networking event.

4. Develop and implement a follow-up survey using Qualtrics software for 2013

and 2014 conference participants to identify the impact of CLA on the

participants and their community.

5. Identify future topics of interest through use of the survey method.

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METHODOLOGY Survey Methodology:

A survey was developed to determine whether or not the CLA Conference prompted positive action in communities of participants, identify future breakout session topics, and how attending CLA was of substantial benefit to participants (See Attachment A).

Two open-ended questions were used to determine impact and future

session topics.

Three questions that asked about personal information, including current

job title, what year the participant attended CLA, and follow up information.

Four Likert-type questions were asked to determine the impact of CLA on

the participants and their community.

A warning email was sent on February 25 to introduce the survey to participants. The survey was successfully delivered by email to 125 past CLA Conference participants via personal email from the CLA account. The survey was then sent via email five times March 2, 5, 10, 13, and 16. Additionally, The WVU Community Resources & Economic Development Facebook account was also utilized to send out the survey, with a potential reach of 364 individuals on March 5, 10, 13, and 16. Coding of Open-Ended Questions Two MPA group members developed a coding sheet, in order to categorize open-ended responses from the question “What future session topics would be of interest to you?” Eleven categories were decided upon, including a category for “other”, and open-ended responses were placed respectively.

Networking Methodology:

There lacks a comprehensive dataset specifically involving networking models and their effectiveness. After extensive research, it was concluded that there are no evidence-based practice methods for networking models. As a result, research was conducted targeting creative discussion techniques and interactive group discussion approaches. The group discussion techniques from two articles were examined and reviewed for qualities best suited for CLA’s 2015 networking session. The techniques were measured for creativity, uniqueness and activity level. They were also assessed for ease of facilitation. Some other requirements were the ability to be performed with a large number of participants as well as the likelihood of promoting valuable discussion among participants. After this evaluation the techniques were altered in order to better suit CLA’s networking session objectives. The goal of the research and alterations was to provide CLA with four

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networking models tailored to their specific needs as well as two overall recommendations for the 2015 networking session.

Limitations:

Validity The survey was open for 15 days and response rate was low. Only 31 respondents completed the entire survey. In circulating the survey, 125 emails were successfully delivered and the Facebook post reached 364 people. 55 people eventually opened the survey. Of those 55 possible respondents, only 36 completed first question and continued forth. The sample was far from a census, therefore the recommendations and conclusions drawn must not be overstated. Because the respondents were self-selecting, data reported means lack reliability. A sample of 36 other participants may yield different results. Evidence-Based Networking Models There exist a dearth of evidence-based practice regarding networking models. Although the models discussed in the findings are specifically tailored to CLA, more research and data to validate the effectiveness of each model included would be beneficial.

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FINDINGS Quantitative Findings:

Thirty-six participants responded to each of the closed-ended questions. Most respondents attended both CLA 2013 and 2014. 20 respondents indicated they attended CLA 2013 and 27 indicated they attended CLA 2014 (see chart on right). No respondents indicated that they “strongly disagree” or “disagree” with any of the four statements. Overall, CLA has been effective in accomplishing its stated goals. Dispersion was relatively steady across quantitative questions. The variances were below .5 for all of the statements except “The education obtained from CLA has prompted positive action in my community”, which was a slightly elevated at .64. Respondents did not agree with this statement as strongly as the other statements. The measurement of standard deviation also reflected this trend. Likewise, the mean for the statement “The education obtained from CLA has prompted positive action in my community” was the lowest at 3.86. All other statements were 4 or above. Fourteen respondents indicated that they “neither agree or disagree” with aforementioned statement. This was double the next highest frequency. Although only slightly, it can be suggested that respondents have derived greater benefit from the CLA personally than have their communities. However, the survey data indicates that CLA has had an overall positive impact on both the participants, as well as their communities.

The knowledge and skills learned at the CLA have

been of substantial

benefit to my community.

I often use the knowledge and skills

learned at the CLA in my

community.

The education obtained from

CLA has prompted

positive action in my

community.

The knowledge and skills

learned at the CLA have been of substantial benefit to me.

Mean 4.06 4 3.86 4.14 Variance 0.45 0.4 0.64 0.41

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The table below depicts the distribution of responses to question two, which asked respondents if they agree with certain statements. As previously mentioned, no respondents indicated they “Strongly Disagree” or “Disagree” with the statements in question two, so they do not appear on the chart.

Qualitative Findings:

Question one had 33 total responses and asked, “What future session topics would be of interest to you?” According to respondents, “citizen engagement” surpassed the other session topics suggested with nine respondents requesting it as a session topic (See chart below). Although the “Other” section had the most topics, the content of the topics varied substantially. For example, one respondent stated,

“More on creating and harnessing capacity to build civic infrastructure. In sparsely populated rural counties we have limited participation from people with capacity for process. Therefore, it is difficult to engage in processes such as planning, project implementation, seeking substantial grants, etc. It is no secret that smaller counties often do not seek funding opportunities, etc. I believe it is because they don't know the importance of preparing for them.”

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Respondents indicated that Rural Governmental Challenges, Water Issues, Entrepreneurial Culture, Food Initiatives, Drug Impact on Community, Community Attitudes, Generational Change, and Presentation Skills. Overall, respondents were generous in providing specific feedback on future session topics. Question three had 31 total responses and asked, “Please describe how your participation in the CLA has affected your community. Be sure to provide details.” Collaboration was an emerging theme. A respondent stated,

“Specifically, it has allowed us to be more open-minded and inclusive of everyone in our community. This has served to increase participation in several functions and improve the number of volunteers helping with activities in our community. Thanks to this, we have seen an increase in awareness of the functions and activities of many of our community development organizations.”

Along these lines, respondents commented on developing better working relationships with others in the community. Another responded stated, “It has helped my community to recognize the different resources available to it, both locally and statewide.” Overall, the CLA Conference exposed participants to new ways of thinking and viewing communities and has made a difference in the personal lives of participants; however, it can only be assumed it has made an impact on the community. According to the data, there has not been as significant of impact made on communities.

02468

101214

2015 Future Session Topic Categories

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Question five asked, “What is your current job title?” The majority of CLA participants are involved in local government with dispersion amongst other occupations (See Chart 2).

Director 17%

Coordinator 7%

Manager 10%

Student 7%

County Administrator

28%

Entrepreneur 7%

Other 24%

Participant Job Titles

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Networking Model/ Findings:

1) Rotating Stations Description: The rotating stations model begins with placing stations around the room in a circular formation. Located at each station will be flip chart with a specific topic for discussion. The topics at each station will be pre-determined prior to the networking event. The participants are split up into groups and gather at their designated flip chart. After all group members are positioned at their designated flip chart they may begin to discuss the designated topic. Groups are encouraged to write their ideas and/or questions on the flip chart. Between ten to twenty minutes (this time is subject to the number of people, topics and overall event time) each group will be prompted to rotate to the next flip chart. At this time the groups may begin to discuss the new topic and add additional ideas to the flip chart. As an alternative technique, groups can stay in place and trade one or more members to rotate to the next flip chart. After each group has reached every station the flip charts are gathered for a final discussion. Figure 1. Provides an example of the model’s layout. Pros: This model allows for topics to be analyzed by multiple people, therefore allowing for a variety viewpoints and suggestions. It is very interactive, keeping participants active and engaged. Additionally, the flip charts ensure ideas are already transcribed. Last, this model allows all participants to be involved in several discussion topics. Cons: Disadvantages to this model include not allowing much time to deeply discuss each topic and therefore not allowing for discussions to be thoroughly developed. This model could provoke too much activity and movement causing participants to be sidetracked and taking away from the actual discussion. Finally, this model could run into time constraints depending on amount of time allotted for the networking event and participants.

Figure 1. Rotating Stations Model Layout

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2) Layered Discussion Description: The layered discussion model begins with topics of discussion that are pre-determined prior to the networking event. It is designed to break down each topic into a series of steps. To begin, conference members should be split up into three to four groups. Furthermore, each of these groups should be split up into three to four sub-groups. The group discussion will begin at this phase. Participants will gather with their sub-group and discuss the topic given. The sub-group should write down their ideas and when they are prompted, all sub-groups will join their main group. At this time each sub-group will share their discussion and ideas leading them to the main group discussion. Figure 2. displays an example of how the breakdown should look. The purpose is to break down the discussion topics so that smaller groups can focus on specific steps leading to ideas for the overall discussion topic. After each main group is finished discussing and writing down their ideas they may share with the other groups. Figure 3. is an example of the layered discussion model with sample discussion topics. Pros: The layered discussion model may be valuable as a networking model for the reason that it allows participants to work in smaller groups. It is simple and allows participants to focus on stages rather than the entire overarching theme. The broken down sub-groups are able to discuss more specific issues. Additionally, it is highly organized and structured which can promote an effective and efficient discussion environment. Cons: On the contrary, this model may lack creativity and freedom for new ideas. Unlike the rotating stations model, it may lack excitement and motivation for participants.

Figure 2. Layered Discussion Breakdown

Figure 3. Layered Discussion Sample Topics

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3) Brainstorming Description: For the brainstorming model participants are placed in groups and given specific duties. One member will serve as the facilitator and one or two members should serve as the scribe. The rest of the group aside from one or two members will be the “brainstormers.” The one or two remaining members will be designated the “devil's advocate.” This is someone who, given an idea, takes a position they do not necessarily agree with, for the sake of debate or to explore the thought further. In taking this position, the individual seeks to engage others in an argumentative discussion process. Figure 4. Provides an example of the layout for one group within this model. The purpose of such a process is to test the quality of the original idea, identify weaknesses in its structure and to use such information to either improve or abandon the original idea. After members have decided on their positions they may begin discussing the specified topic. The discussion topics for each group will be pre-determined prior to the beginning of the networking event. Pros: This model gives group members responsibilities within the discussion. It allows discussions to generate new ideas as well as challenge the strength of their ideas. Cons: On the other hand, this model could lead to too much debate during the discussion process. This model may limit members’ ability to contribute if given a specific duty.

Figure 4. Brainstorming Model, Group Layout

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4) Drawing Discussion Description: The drawing discussion model begins by breaking up the conference members into groups. Group members will report to their designated station. Located at every station is a specific discussion topic. The topics at each station will be pre-determined prior to the networking event. In addition, the stations are supplied with poster board, pens/markers, rulers, scissors and tape. Group members are asked to provide a visual representation of the important themes in their discussion. They are encouraged to be creative and playful while maintaining an underlying seriousness. Figure 5. Provides an example of supplies that should be available to each group. There are no rules on what they are to create for their visual representation. The idea is to allow each group to discuss their topic as well as create a tangible interpretation of their discussion. Pros: This model requires participants to be creative not only in their thinking but also in their presenting of ideas. It engages participants, keeps them actively involved in discussing their topic and also making a visual. It can also promote a fun and entertaining way of deliberating wand discussing the topic specified. Cons: In contrast, participants may become too consumed in their drawing, which could decrease the value of the discussion. They may not feel comfortable with their ability to create a drawing reflecting their discussion, which may also take away from the discussion. Finally, the actual labor of the drawing may take away from valuable time to discuss the topic specified.

Figure 5. Drawing Discussion Supply Example

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RECOMMENDATIONS The following recommendations are made to the CLA Planning Committee on behalf of the MPA Capstone Group.

The dip in agreeability with the statement “The education obtained from CLA has

prompted positive action in my community” indicates an additional challenge.

Although that they have learned/developed skills at CLA, implementation is an

additional barrier they must overcome. It is recommended future sessions concern

empowering and encouraging individuals to positively impact their community.

It should not ignore that respondents overwhelmingly reported a positive impact of

past CLA conferences. Even among a voluntary sample, some negative responses

are to be expected. Yet, no respondents were critical. Much variation from past

conference plans could disrupt the positive trend. It is recommended that past topics

and techniques be reused.

The rotating stations model includes creativity, uniqueness and interaction.

Facilitation of this model is feasible and can be performed with a large number of

participants. Additionally, this model promotes valuable and effective discussion

among participants. After reviewing the 2014 networking session and considering

the possible improvements, it is recommended that CLA apply the rotating stations

model for the 2015 networking session.

The layered discussion model also includes creativity, uniqueness and interaction.

Although the model is slightly more difficult to coordinate, it promotes a very

organized and efficient discussion approach. This model ensures that all avenues of

desired discussion topics are emphasized. Therefore, it is recommended that CLA

apply the layered discussion model in the event that the rotating stations model is

not chosen.

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Major contributors to this report include Paul LaMancusa Jr., Jessica Fowler and Sonya Arnold. The report was done as a requirement and in conjunction with Public Administration Capstone Experience PUBA 700. If you have questions about this report or wish to comment on the quality or usefulness of this report, contact Maja Holmes Department Chair of Public Administration at West Virginia University. ______________________________________________________ Sonya Arnold, MPA Candidate ______________________________________________________ Jessica Fowler, MPA Candidate ______________________________________________________ Paul LaMancusa Jr, MPA Candidate

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REFERENCES Dunne, D. (n.d.). Some Creative Techniques for Discussion Teaching. Retrieved from: http://www.teaching.utoronto.ca/Assets/Teaching+Digital+Assets/CTSI+1/CTSI+Digital+Assets/PDFs/Discussion+Teaching.pdf Discussions: Facilitiation Techniques. Teaching Tips Educational Development Centre. Retrieved from: http://carleton.ca/edc/wp-content/uploads/Discussions-Facilitation-Techniques1.pdf WVU Extension Service. (2015). Community Leadership Academy. Retrieved from: http://cla.ext.wvu.edu/

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APPENDIX Session Topic Categories:

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Survey:

Default Question BlockThank you for your participation. Your input is extremely

This survey is about the impact that past CLA conferences have had in the communities of their participants. Also, we would like to know what future topics are of interest to our participants. You input is extremely valuable and helps ensure that we are meeting our mission. This survey should take less than 5 minutes. Thank you for your participation.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement.

Strongly Disagree

Disagree

Neither Agree or Disagree

Agree Strongly Agree

The knowledge and skills learned at the CLA have been of substantial benefit to my community.

The education obtained from CLA has prompted positive action in my community.

I often use the knowledge and skills learned at the CLA in my community.

The knowledge and skills learned at the CLA have been of substantial benefit to me.

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Please describe how your participation in the CLA has affected your community. Be sure to provide details.

Which CLA did you attend? (Select all that apply).

2013 2014

What is your current job title?

Your input is extremely valuable to the CLA. Would it be okay for the CLA to follow-up with you, in order to elaborate on your survey response?

Yes No

If yes, please provide us with a phone number and a good time to reach you.

Your input is greatly appreciated and helps ensure the success of future CLA conferences. If you have indicated it is okay, a CLA representative may contact you to understand responses in greater depth. Thank you for your time.

Survey Powered By Qualtrics

What future session topics would be of interest to you?

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Survey:

What future session topics would be of interest to you?

Topics concerning everyday working with small Class IV towns. Much of the topic discussion is on the level of larger organizations or on a county level.

Grants. I really learned a lot form last years panel. I'd like to see it again. Local agriculture initiatives

Ways to engage the public or volunteers in civic involvement Projects to impact youth leadership Helping your small businesses grow (addressing store front issues/displays, signage, merchant associations etc.)

Time management

Property Development in the County How to succeed at passing county codes for proper development.

Public Private Partnerships, TIFFS, County Government and Community Development, Ethics-I know we had this once before but it is always educational, etc

finding and motivating volunteer board/committee members

Marketing, how to sell your community. How to figure out what you have to offer. When you live there you take things for granted and need to look at things in a new way.

MS4- Storm water issues and regulations with WVDEP and US EPA Establishing Storm water Fees in municipalities and in areas in the county that impact watersheds in municipalities

Increasing citizen engagement

Dealing with difficult people and transitioning from staff to supervisor.

Increasing community interest and involvement Involving both local and state elected officials in community development activities Staying in Touch with Revolving Corporate Executives (I stole the title from a session that I was unable to attend at another conference, but thought it relevant to our work) Developing an Entrepreneurial Culture (Think along the lines of this year's farming/agribusiness sessions) Building Community Enthusiasm

More on creating and harnessing capacity to build civic infrastructure. In sparsely populated rural counties we have limited participation from people with capacity for process. Therefore, it is difficult to engage in processes such as planning, project implementation, seeking substantial grants, etc. It is no secret that smaller counties often do not seek funding opportunities, etc. I believe it is because they don't know the importance of preparing for them.

More local food initiative projects.

Small Towns, many organizations, increasing communication;

The team building, defining relationships and how to handle them at the work place. The session on drug abuse and how it has an affect on our communities and economics. How to develop better leadership skills.

Tourism and CVB outreach to prospective retirees or those with ties to WV who don't currently live in WV

How to develop infrastructure in our county. We have been working on a Comprehensive Plan for the county.

Anything not already covered

Building/Best Practices in Community-Campus partnerships Engagement techniques when working with the community (how to make accessible, etc) Effective Networking Effective writing/publishing/presentation skills for higher ed professionals Strategic "Action" techniques (Ed Morrison was GREAT in 2013!)

Building consensus in a community.

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Last Modified: 04/01/2015

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement.

Question Strongly S Disagree Neither Agree or Disagree Agree Strongly

Agree Total Responses Mean

The knowledge and skills learned at the CLA have been of substantial benefit to my community. 0 0 7 20 9 36 4.06

I often use the knowledge and skills learned at the CLA in my community. 0 0 7 22 7 36 4.00

The education obtained from CLA has prompted positive action in my community. 0 0 14 13 9 36 3.86

The knowledge and skills learned at the CLA have been of substantial benefit to me. 0 0 5

21

10 36 4.14

improving local economy

Something about What's Next, WV (or the program in general). A program focused on Community Attitudes (dissecting, approaching, and changing). A session on Asset Based Development. Something about Capacity Building (within people).

n/a

What is community?

Something regarding the impact of generational change in WV. It seems like our state is getting older. What's going on? What's the deal with generations?

tourism development, recreational and parks development, attracting small businesses

Leadership in the workplace.

how to bring existing businesses together to help boost econonmy

Using social media to farther promoting your purpose How to attract more participation

Utilizing community resources such as artisans and coops.

Storm Water issues

public speaking

Statistic Value

Total Responses 33

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Please describe how your participation in the CLA has affected your community. Be sure to provide details.

I try to personally use what I learn, but some of it does not apply to my municipality

It brought myself and my County Commissioners closer as we attended classes of interests together.

I enjoyed the session regarding restaurant tours with Norm; gave me some great ideas for my communities

Made me look and my community and county in a different was. Seeing the value of other organizations.

I am not in the decision process to know this. I am more active in learning about my community.

Working closely with other branches to develop a relationship.

Better public relations and media control.

One of the ways this has helped our community is thru collaboration. Allowing me to step back and create an open mind in desire of working and understanding each other. This is with community leaders and the public. Seems that everyone has such a diverse opinion even if it is wrong.

Through positive leadership practices and networking and learning about various ordinances that could have positive impacts on our community.

NA

Knowledge gained at the CLA has been essential in shaping my county's comprehensive plan. Also got us connected with the WVU College of Law Land Use Clinic.

Specifically, it has allowed us to be more open-minded and inclusive of everyone in our community. This has served to increase participation in several functions and improve the number of volunteers helping with activities in our community. Thanks to this, we have seen an increase in awareness of the functions and activities of many of our community development organizations.

Last year, through the networking opportunities, we have been able to access resources for a regional development effort. Other networking opportunities have provided great ideas on other projects.

I can't say that it has affected my community. I found some sessions good and interesting, but did I bring anything back to my community? No.

I am only one, I think impact would be greater with more participation, but I am doing my best.

Interaction with individuals and how to allow and encourage participation in meetings. Dealing with employees and co workers in difficult circumstances. Enhancing overall abilities to govern and serve.

SC 9-1-1 has implemented a robust emergency plan to include increased shelter plans; Additional shelter and emergency backup locations discussion with city of Hinton

I have shared the information I received with my county commission. The Director of the EDA here in Doddridge has also attended the meetings and we are working together.

More knowledgeable leader

I attended one day in 2013 only, but any opportunity for networking and learning best practice in community partnerships is always positive for me and I do apply to the work I do every day. Mr. Morrison's presentation stuck with me and I have caught myself quoting some things he said when discussing civic engagement activities with all stakeholders... "strategic action" instead of "strategic planning"; "space and time" for engagement, as well as his research indicating the crucial connections between communities and institutions of higher ed. Taking this knowledge and sharing with others has (I hope) improved the quality of partnerships as well as engagement opportunities for WVU students, faculty, and community partners.

n/a

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Which CLA did you attend?

2013 20 2014 27 Total 47

5. What is your current job title?

Text Response

Town Recorder

Executive Director

community develpment

Economic Development Director

Sr. Scientist

Assessor

CLA provides me with general Community Development based information that I can slowly use when working with community partners.

We have brought back ideas for our farmers market.

Opening dialog between leaders and citizens.

The guest speaker (athlectic director) on leadership got me thiking of the points he listed. I now look for these in community leaders.

It has given me different perspectives on how other communities address the same issues I have.

Team work pays off.

I was able to bring back some new ideas that have been accepted

I share the stories of success I have heard and use them to show how working together makes a difference.

It has helped my community to recognize the different resources available to it, both localy and statewide.

Bring knowledge back to my community and networking

Value

Total Responses 31

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commissioner

Business owner

Town Superintendent (city Manager)

Student

Deputy Planning Director

Entrepreneur

Executive Director

Graduate Student

Tourism Director

County Commissioner

Planning Official

Doddridge County Clerk

sheriff

Program Coordinator, AP

Extension Agent

County Administrator

Community Development Administrator

public servant

County Administrator

Revitalize Communities Program Coordinator

General Manager

WVU Extension Service, Porgam Assistant

City manager

Statistic Value

Total Responses 29

6. Your input is extremely valuable to the CLA. Would it be okay for the CLA to follow-up with you, in order to

elaborate on your survey response?

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7. If yes, please provide us with a phone number and a good time to reach you.

#

1 2

Answer

Yes

No

Bar

Response

19

10

%

66%

34%

Text Response

304-406-4749

304-788-2233,Regular Business Hours

304-643-2505 M-F 8-4 ??

304-225-2245

304-296-0330 and probably evening

1-304-771-1664

304-574-0101

(304) 847-5477 (Day and Evening)

304-873-1652

304-573-9943. If I am not available, I will return the call as soon as possible.

304-309-6879 during business hours or at [email protected].

304-873-2631 During the weekdays, especially afternoons.

304 481 8969

3042938344, anytime 9-5pm M-F

304-684-1127 anytime

304-284-7508 10 am

304 574-4228

3046950488 after 2pm

304-574-0101

Statistic Value

Total Responses 19

Page 30: Capstone CLA MPA Report

CLA and MPA Conference Assessment 30

Email Messages:

Please complete the CLA survey View this email in your browser

Dear Past Community Leadership Academy (CLA) Participant,

CLA is asking for your help. Please spare a moment to help WVU Extension Service

and the CLA Planning Committee learn how you have implemented the skills

obtained at past CLA events, as well as what topic(s) you would like to see as part of

CLA in 2015. The survey should take no longer than 5 minutes to complete.

Click this link now to access the survey. Please complete the survey by Tuesday,

March 17 at 11:59 p.m.!

Your participation in this survey is necessary to ensure CLA is responsive to the

needs of our local West Virginia communities.

Thank you again,

The CLA Planning Committee

Copyright © 2015 WVU Extension Service - Community Resources & Economic Development, All rights reserved.

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Page 31: Capstone CLA MPA Report

CLA and MPA Conference Assessment 31

Page 32: Capstone CLA MPA Report

CLA and MPA Conference Assessment 32

Please complete the CLA survey View this email in your browser

Dear Past Community Leadership Academy (CLA) Participant,

WVU Extension Service and the CLA Planning Committee is requesting your

participation in this brief survey to assess how you have implemented the skills

obtained at past CLA events as well as what topic(s) you would like to see as part of

CLA 2015. Please let us know by participating in the survey included in the link

below. The survey should take no longer than 5 minutes to complete.

Click this link now to access the survey. The survey will be available through March

9, 2015.

This is your opportunity to be a part of our planning process, which ensures CLA

remains responsive to the needs of our local West Virginia communities. We thank

you in advance for your participation in this survey and sincerely appreciate your

time and effort. It is because of you that we are able to advance our CLA.

Thank you,

The CLA Planning Committee

Copyright © 2015 WVU Extension Service - Community Resources & Economic Development, All rights reserved.

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Page 33: Capstone CLA MPA Report

CLA and MPA Conference Assessment 33

Please complete the CLA survey View this email in your browser

Dear Past Community Leadership Academy (CLA) Participant,

If you have not done so already, WVU Extension Service and the CLA Planning

Committee request your participation in this brief survey to assess how you have

implemented the skills obtained at past CLA events, as well as what topic(s) you

would like to see as part of CLA 2015. The survey should take no longer than 5

minutes to complete.

Click this link now to access the survey. Do so now, as it will close Wednesday,

March 11 at 11:59 p.m.!

Your participation survey ensures CLA remains responsive to the needs of our local

West Virginia communities. It is because of you that we are able to advance our

CLA.

Thank you again,

The CLA Planning Committee

Copyright © 2015 WVU Extension Service - Community Resources & Economic Development, All rights reserved.

unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences

Page 34: Capstone CLA MPA Report

CLA and MPA Conference Assessment 34

Please complete the CLA survey View this email in your browser

Dear Past Community Leadership Academy (CLA) Participant,

CLA is asking for your help. Please spare a moment to help WVU Extension Service

and the CLA Planning Committee learn how you have implemented the skills

obtained at past CLA events, as well as what topic(s) you would like to see as part of

CLA in 2015. The survey should take no longer than 5 minutes to complete.

Click this link now to access the survey. Please complete the survey by Tuesday,

March 17 at 11:59 p.m.!

Your participation in this survey is necessary to ensure CLA is responsive to the

needs of our local West Virginia communities.

Thank you again,

The CLA Planning Committee

Copyright © 2015 WVU Extension Service - Community Resources & Economic Development, All rights reserved.

unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences

Page 35: Capstone CLA MPA Report

CLA and MPA Conference Assessment 35

Memorandum of Agreement:

Page 36: Capstone CLA MPA Report

CLA and MPA Conference Assessment 36