6:8 Welcomes New Community Leaders

Cliff Thompson energizes the group

Sauk City, Wisconsin.  On October 12, a group of leaders from all corners of Sauk County descended upon the 6:8 Inc. facility in Sauk City. The group is part of the Sauk County Institute of Leadership (SCIL), facilitated by UW-Madison Sauk County Extension Educator Morgan McArthur. SCIL is a 9-month leadership program aimed at growing the leadership community within Sauk County.

John Ramthun, co-founder of 6:8, Inc., kicked off the morning describing the nature of their work, mission, and outlook. Kris Ballweg, Director of the Sauk Prairie Area Food Pantry, provided a tour of the pantry. She described the constant and shifting needs, funding, and access to the pantry. The group also heard from a panel of two Sauk County women leaders: Dr. Jessica Mijal, Director of the Sauk County Human Services and Deb O’Rourke, Sauk County Court Commissioner. The women discussed leading in times of stress, how they manage a stressful environment, and servant leadership. 

Brian Simmert, Planning and Zoning Manager of the Sauk County Land Resources and Environment Department, offered the group information regarding the planning process of the Great Sauk State Trail and a playground project at Bluffview Park. He discussed future trail routes, timelines, and working as a planner, serving the Sauk County community. 

Lastly, retired Sauk Prairie School Superintendent Cliff Thompson urged the group to pay attention when leadership may come calling, ready or not. 

Following the speakers, the group reflected on the experience and how it may have impacted them personally before returning to their respective communities. This was the second of nine sessions for the group.

Written by Kristine Fischer and Wendy Collins