The Power of Collaboration
Throughout the three days I had the pleasure of spending in Pittsburgh for the Leadership Exchange earlier this month, the culture of collaboration was palpable. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. Chairman Jim Rohr summed up the process for any project—and we heard about a number of them—that Pittsburghers have worked on together over the past 30 years to create the vibrant city it is today: "In Pittsburgh, it's not really someone's project. It's our project."
I and the other 149 delegates from Colorado learned a lot about the city that was once only defined by its steel production. Here are a few takeaways:
Collaboration: We marveled throughout our trip at the collaborative efforts that have impacted Pittsburgh. The story of Pittsburgh's cultural district resonated with our delegates, because it echoed what Rohr told us. Civic and business leaders worked together to revitalize a red light district into a vibrant arts and culture center. The area, known as the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, didn't get bogged down in naming rights—everyone involved gave all they could to the project because they believed in the need for this in the city center.
Diversifying the economy: We heard over and over how Pittsburgh and Denver both woke up in the 1980s with only one defined industry. We've both worked to diversify. Pittsburgh has made a name for itself in higher education, medicine, robotics technology, energy and advanced manufacturing. Our delegates had an opportunity to meet with industry leaders and experience first-hand the cutting-edge advances that are transforming each of these sectors.
Unique solutions in education: Delegates had the opportunity to learn about education solutions by touring Manchester Bidwell, a unique organization that provides youth arts programs and adult education, and learning about the Pittsburgh Promise, a scholarship program that provides up to $40,000 per student who graduates from city high schools. Delegates also explored an innovative initiative to reinvent traditional learning in and out of the classroom, leveraging new technologies and community partnerships to effectively engage a new generation of students.
The Leadership Foundation will continue to serve as a convener and will work with our alumni to bring interested parties to the table to facilitate meaningful discussions that can lead to action and impact for our region.
A special thank you to our sponsors, particularly Presenting Sponsor Anadarko Petroleum Corporation, and our spectacular Leadership Foundation team for developing and pulling off an exceptional, educational three days.
Cindy Parsons
Chair, Leadership Foundation Board of Directors
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