Conversations with Andra Polasky

Today we’d like to introduce you to Andra Polasky.

Hi Andra, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was honored to be chosen to be the Executive Director of Leadership Portage County in May of 2023. My career journey led me to this position at the perfect time in my life. I am an alumna of the Class of 2007, the “Best Class Every” and I knew the impact the program has on professionals. My background in sales, training and development and major gift fundraising blended wonderfully for this next chapter. Leadership Portage County is a non-profit organization dedicated to identifying and developing leaders in Portage County. The program was created in 1992 by a group of community leaders who saw the value of growing and retaining local talent. Our goal is to enhance the county’s economic, business, governmental, educational, cultural, social, and civic development. We achieve this by stimulating interest in community involvement, assisting individuals to become involved in committees and boards, and providing a network of resources for program graduates to use in their future leadership roles.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The challenge has been to show the value of the program to local companies and non-profits. Some companies struggle with budgeting for professional development, which really impacts employees growth, productivity, fulfillment and retention. Employees may end up feeling less appreciated and valued. Our participants are the best advertising we have as they go back to their teams and companies as stronger leaders and show the value of the program.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My education is in journalism and broadcast news. Post college graduation, my new husband and I relocated to Texas and I worked at a radio station as their news director. Being so far from home (Portage County, Ohio) I decided not to return to radio and decided to stay home with our children for over a decade. I then found myself working in healthcare then at a premier mental health agency in their wellness enterprise! I had an amazing manager and mentor that empowered me to spread my wings and fly! I loved the opportunities that were presented to me during that 7+ years at Coleman Health Services in Kent, Ohio. I became certified in Emotional Intelligence, Intrinsic Coaching and Drug Free Workplace. I facilitated a lot of professional development trainings. I then found myself at Kent State University as a major gift and planned giving front line fundraiser. I had another incredible manager and mentor who taught me the finesse of relationship building and fundraising. I fine tuned my ability to create relationships with donors and learned how being authentic and truly listening to people raises a lot of dollars. I sequed to healthcare fundraising and secured funds for many service lines. I am proud of the relationships I have created with many generous donors over the years. After 15 years in fundraising I decided it was time for a break. That’s when the opportunity to become the Executive Director at Leadership Portage County was presented. I had been in the program in 2006-2007 and loved the experience. I was offered the position in May of 2023. I have led 3 classes to date and am proud of the growth and successes of the participants and the program. I have incorporated more leadership sessions and opportunities to sit at tables with business owners and leaders in government, higher education and non-profits. Participants have opportunities to serve and give back to our community. I’ve seen first hand that there’s power in community.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Not long after I assumed this role in May, 2023, I realized how vital and impactful community relationships and support are to the success of this small non-profit. My Board is incredible and very hands on. They are all alumni of Leadership Portage County and are invested in the the program thriving. They support our program days, conference, podcast and many other ventures. They show up! That’s what really matters at small non-profits and in life. I am the only paid employee and my Board, our alumni and the Portage County community as a whole supports us in many ways. Businesses and non-profit agencies host our class days, sponsor meals for the classes, present on leadership, give tours of their businesses, etc. Our program runs because of participants tuition, our annual conference and donations. We are always looking for folks to collaborate with. Our classes have a day of service at our opening 2 day retreat and they help build houses at Habitat for Humanity of Portage County! It’s wonderful seeing 40 people working side by side all day on a house for someone in need! It’s a great community collaboration that we cherish. That’s what’s important, helping others be successful and grow! I encourage everyone to follow Leadership Portage County on our socials and give our “Best Leadership Podcast Ever” a listen on Spotify, Apple or on our website!

Pricing:

• Signature Program Tuition: $2,500

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.leadershipportagecounty.org
• Instagram: leadershipportage
• Facebook: Leadership Portage County
• LinkedIn: Leadership Portage County
• Other: https://www.leadershipportagecounty.org/podcast