Michele McInnis’s Story: How ICL (Institute for Civic Leadership) helped shape her leadership style and impact on the Katahdin Region

Alex Gramling, Chief Marketing Officer at Healthcare IT Leaders and Michele McInnis Operations Manager and Community Development Coordinator for Our Katahdin met as Doubletop (2022-23) classmates in the Institute for Civic Leadership. As residents of Kennebunk and Millinocket, it is unlikely that their paths would have crossed in their professional or personal lives. But there are many families in Millinocket that are sure glad they did meet!  

McInnis says, “Alex contacted me months after graduation offering to bring Christmas Tree Santas to the Katahdin Region. Remembering his heartwarming story in class, I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of!” The two set Christmas 2023 as the first event.  

The success of that event has made the pair determined to serve more families in 2024. McInnis secured additional donors and is planning for an event where “50 families will be given a real tree, trimmings, tree stand, lights and a ‘Grinch Package’ as the kids love the Grinch!” 

Michele shares that in addition to this wonderful collaboration, ICL gave her so much more confidence professionally. “What I learned at ICL impacted how I collaborate with others in the community who are part of various organizations trying to lift up our community. I don’t feel alone in my work, even though I am a staff of one.  I have learned to ask for help as well as offer help. Leadership looks very different to me now.  I didn’t think I was a leader when I entered into ICL. Over time I have seen how I am a leader in my community and proud to be one!

That is music to the ears of MDF’s Senior Program Director, Jan Kearce. “I often describe ICL as an inward journey, an opportunity to learn who you are as a leader while building essential skills that will make you more effective in all your roles.” 

Indeed, MicInnis credits new skills in self-evaluation, networking, and systems thinking for her growth as a leader. As a scholarship recipient, McInnis is grateful to MDF’s donors and to her organization for supporting her professional development in what she calls “a life changing opportunity.” It’s safe to say the Katahdin Region will be reaping the benefits for years to come too!