Reflecting on Leadership in 2024 – Lessons Learned and Outlook for Future
By Cheryl Grohman and Elizabeth Nottling
As we close the chapter on 2024, it’s the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate a year of leadership, growth, and connection.
This year brought remarkable milestones, new beginnings, and a continued commitment to excellence in leadership development. At Executive Agenda (EA), we’re proud of what we’ve accomplished together and excited about what lies ahead as we set the stage for an extraordinary 2025.
Celebrating 2024: A Year of Leadership Milestones
This year marked significant growth for EA. We welcomed 98 new members, expanding our network of executives committed to innovation and leadership development. Additionally, we were delighted to welcome Chuck Croft as a new Group Chair, bringing fresh expertise and insight to our community.
Our members and chairs celebrated notable service anniversaries in 2024, a testament to the strength of our organization and the commitment of its people. Kathy Clark, Debbie Rudan, Linda Vavrik, and Eric McGraw celebrated five years with EA, while Marianne Dickson achieved an incredible 20 years of service, serving as both a Group Chair and Chair Development Coordinator. Marianne’s dedication exemplifies EA’s core values of leadership, learning, and legacy.
EA in Action: Sponsorships and Events
This year, EA proudly sponsored several key events that reflect our commitment to business and leadership excellence:
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Insight on Business' Manufacturing First Expo and Conference
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Best Places to Work in Wisconsin in Manufacturing
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In Business Madison Exec Connect
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In Business Future of Business Summit
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Wisconsin State SHRM Conference
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Wisconsin Chapter of the American Foundry Expo
Our Executive Fuel Seminars were another highlight, attracting hundreds of members and guests. These sessions provided invaluable insights from renowned speakers:
- Severin Sorensen – The AI Whisperer for Business
- Gustavo Grodnitzky – Maximizing Performance in a Multi-Generational Workforce
- Jim Harris – Surviving & Thriving in an Era of Disruption
We also hosted two thought-provoking Madison Roundtable events under the Culture Shock banner:
- Managing in the Age of Outrage
- Leading Through Times of Transformation
Fostering Engagement and Excellence
EA’s commitment to cultivating meaningful connections and fostering leadership development was evident throughout 2024.
This year, 100 leaders attended our Virtual Information Breakfast sessions, many of whom were discovering EA for the first time.
These sessions serve as a testament to the growing interest in leadership growth and personal development. The fact that so many individuals are seeking opportunities to enhance their leadership journey underscores the relevance of EA’s mission: to ensure every executive in Wisconsin experiences the transformative power of our community.
Our Biannual Group Scorecard survey showcased unparalleled member engagement, with
an outstanding 93% participation rate.
These results reflect the strong relationships and trust within our community. The feedback revealed exceptional member satisfaction on a scale of 5 being the best:
Would recommend EA
to a colleague
4.8
Would rejoin EA
if necessary
4.6
Overall satisfaction
with EA
4.7
These scores are remarkable, underscoring the impact of EA’s programs and the exceptional dedication of our Group Chairs. High engagement and satisfaction are no accident—they result from our focus on listening to members, responding to their needs, and continuously improving our offerings. EA’s environment fosters trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to growth, ensuring every member feels valued and supported.
Leadership Lessons and Future Outlook
As we move into 2025, one insight stands out: the greatest challenge isn’t the rise of technology but our willingness to reinvent ourselves. A quote from Mike Walsh’s The Algorithmic Leader resonated deeply:
“It is all too easy to read about disruption without accepting the terrifying possibility that the real thing that needs to change isn’t your company or industry—it’s you.”
In an era of constant change, personal reinvention is the key to staying relevant. Leadership today requires us to embrace new perspectives, adapt to advancements in technology, and navigate the immense flow of information with discernment, clarity and intention.
Announcing Our 2025 Theme: Executive Intelligence – Development For the Next Era
Our theme for 2025 reflects the evolving demands of leadership. Executive Intelligence - It’s about developing the ability to filter diverse perspectives, distill actionable insights from data, and lead with clarity and impact This is the leadership that will define the next era. This approach will equip leaders to navigate complexity and thrive in the challenges ahead.
Our Commitments for 2025
- Expanding EA’s Reach
We’ll continue to share EA with executives across Wisconsin, ensuring more leaders experience the transformative power of our community.
- Enhancing Chair Development
Supporting our Group Chairs with the tools and best practices they need to thrive.
- Staying Technologically Relevant
Embracing advancements that enhance member engagement and organizational effectiveness.
- Providing Member Value
Building on resources like the enhanced EA Member Directory to ensure every member finds meaningful benefits.
Looking Ahead
2025 will be a year of transformation, growth, and continued excellence. Together, we’ll foster a culture where innovation thrives, leaders grow, and organizations flourish.
To our members
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Your leadership inspires us every day.
To those considering joining EA
The time has never been better to connect, grow, and lead in a community that’s committed to shaping the future of business in Wisconsin and across the globe.
Here’s to a successful and transformative 2025!
– Cheryl & Liz
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