hori zons

AG LEADERSHIP >> National Travel Seminar
Lessons
Learned
in D.C. & Maryland
The national travel seminar in
March delivered a compelling
experiential learning
opportunity to Class 43
fellows that deepened their
leadership skills. Over the course of eight
days, they met with government, business,
nonprofit, community and educational
leaders; explored the historic Gettysburg
Battlefield; and learned more about
Chesapeake Bay issues and projects. Some
fellows share their perspectives about
specific lessons during the trip.
Lesson: Political Polarization
Polarization is the separation into diametrically opposed, often
antagonistic, groups or viewpoints. The class learned about the political
process and saw divergent attitudes and approaches to dealing with
critical issues.
Manpreet Bains: “Over the past decade, we’ve seen a dramatic
increase in political polarization in the U.S. With political divisions in
Congress reaching levels not seen since the Civil War and the public
following suit with their opinions about government, we are at a critical
moment in our nation’s history. When talking with political leaders in D.C.,
it was clear that there are more areas of intersection than divergence. It is
up to leaders like those that CALF is growing to seize on opportunities to
“think outside the box” and build bridges, rather than deepen the chasms
that divide us.”
Lesson: The Importance of Understanding
the Judicial System
The class learned about Supreme Court legal debates and the perspectives
of Justice Stephen Breyer.
Tricia Geringer: “Justice Breyer discussed the challenging and
often polarizing nomination process for justices. He said the nomination
process, though difficult, is necessary and something he respects. Given
that justices are appointed for life, he conveyed that it is critical for
Americans to learn as much as possible about the views of the person
being nominated to the court. This vetting process in the U.S. Senate is the
only opportunity to evaluate the nominee, and he believes it is vital. Justice
Breyer’s humility and patience as he answered our questions was striking
and demonstrates the value of these virtues. His unassuming nature is a
powerful lesson in emotional intelligence.”
Vance Ahlem: “While visiting with representatives from California,
we heard over and over again how they try to work with their colleagues
across the aisle, but could never get anything done because the other
party wouldn’t bend to the will of the person reaching out. As I think
back on the dysfunction I observed while in Washington, it brings to mind
a message that I learned in our meeting with Mr. Marshall Matz. When
dealing with politics it is time to reach out and find a common cause that
you can build upon with those who are traditionally aligned against you.”
Danielle Dupree: “Hire smart, passionate, hardworking people with
a lot of energy. Great advice from Justice Breyer and understandable
considering the amount of effort that goes into choosing and researching
cases heard in the Supreme Court. Justice Breyer explained the complex
process prior to the very short trial, including the debate and discussion
between the differing opinions in our land’s highest court. The amount of
respect for differing opinions was apparent and expressed as valuable to
the process. It reminded me that conflicting opinions often bring important
details to the issue at hand.”
PAGE >> 11
Photo: Architect of the Capitol