“My experience with the Lead the Ville leadership course in Estherville, Iowa, surpassed all expectations. This program doesn’t just teach leadership skills; it immerses you in the fabric of Estherville’s community and businesses, providing invaluable insights and fostering deep connections.
Throughout the course, Lead the Ville’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences was palpable, creating an engaging and enriching learning environment. From dissecting Estherville’s economic intricacies to exploring effective leadership strategies, the program offers a comprehensive curriculum that equips participants with the tools and knowledge to excel in professional and community settings alike.
What truly distinguishes Lead the Ville is its emphasis on practical application. Through hands-on experiences and interactive sessions, participants not only acquire theoretical knowledge but also cultivate the confidence and skills to enact real change as leaders within Estherville and beyond.
I wholeheartedly recommend Lead the Ville to anyone seeking to hone their leadership abilities while simultaneously making impactful contributions to their local community. This program transcends mere leadership; it embodies empowerment, connection, and the catalyst for positive change. Thank you, Lead the Ville, for an exceptional experience!”
-Ashley Henson (Avera Holy Family Radiology Manager)

"I wholeheartedly recommend the Lead the Ville program to anyone who lives or works in Estherville. Having recently moved to Estherville, I wanted to learn more about the community and am always interested in improving my leadership skills, so it seemed like a good fit.
This program surpassed anything I could have imagined, leading to significant personal growth and a deeper understanding than I ever knew was possible of the businesses, local government, and community organizations within Estherville.
What really distinguishes this leadership program from others is the focus on building relationships between classmates and connections within the community. Through this experience, I've met lifelong friends, started becoming an active community member, and can't wait to see what comes next.
I am incredibly grateful to be part of the inaugural Lead the Ville group. Thank you, Lexie and Susan, and the many community members who helped make this program so wonderful."
-Emily Mullaly-Iowa Lakes Community College and Celestial Discs

"The Lead the Ville program is an amazing experience for community members. I was encouraged to apply as I was brand new to the Estherville area, and I am so glad I did. This program dives deep into the backbone of Estherville as you get to experience behind-the-scenes tours, meet other members of the community, learn about volunteer opportunities, and see what keeps Estherville a thriving community. 
While this was a great opportunity to visit hidden gems within the community, it was also a place to establish and build connections with others that participated in the program. For 9 months, I was able to work with a handful of other people in the program who were from different businesses in Estherville. It was a joy getting to know each and every one of them. I felt that the connection we created and having class time to learn more about ourselves, and each other's strengths, built a sturdy foundation for us to take back to our current job positions, as well as into the community.
I encourage others to apply for the Lead the Ville program and see the many windows of opportunity the program has to offer for you, your employer, and the community. Estherville is truly a place to be appreciated." - Katelyn Herzberg, Emmet County ISU Extension County Youth Coordinator