Sauk County Institute of Leadership Launches Leadership Journey at Durward's Glen Retreat Center

Baraboo, WI   Twenty strangers arrived at Durward’s Glen Retreat Center on Thursday, September 10, 2026, ready to begin a nine-month journey that will challenge them to grow as leaders, build meaningful connections, and make a positive difference in Sauk County.

The newest class of the Sauk County Institute of Leadership (SCIL) kicked off its 2026 leadership journey with a two-day retreat designed to break down barriers, build trust, and introduce participants to the leadership skills they will develop throughout the program. The retreat began with an introduction from UW-Madison Extension Sauk County facilitator Morgan McArthur, setting the tone for the retreat and encouraging the group to ‘get in the Stretch Zone’. 

The ice was quickly broken when Sergeant First Class Rocco Sylvester of the Wisconsin Army National Guard challenged the SCIL participants, affectionately known as “SCILsters”, to work together to complete a series of team-based challenges. Participants were tasked with using communication, collaboration, and leadership skills to accomplish the challenges at hand.

By Day 2, the group dynamic had noticeably changed in a positive way. The room was filled with increased conversation and connection. The day included stories and insights from several previous SCIL graduates, offering the newest class a glimpse into the potential impact of the program.  “It's the connection you make with the person next to you,” said Seth Meise, SCIL Class of 2022, reflecting on one of the most meaningful aspects of the SCIL experience.

Also featured were presentations by Sauk County Administrator Lisa Wilson and Wisconsin District 40 Assembly representative Karen DeSanto. 

The Sauk County Institute of Leadership is a nine-month program that brings together emerging and potential leaders from diverse sectors of the Sauk County community. Through shared experiences, leadership development, and relationship building, SCIL seeks to empower, engage, and equip participants to make a positive difference throughout Sauk County.

The opening retreat at Durward’s Glen marks the beginning of a journey that will challenge the 20 members of the 2027 class to discover their individual leadership strengths while developing a deeper understanding of the people, organizations, and communities that make Sauk County unique.

For these 20 participants, the journey has begun and the possibilities are just beginning to unfold. 

For more information on SCIL, go to www.saukcountyinstituteofleadership.org.

Written By: Amanda Taylor and Ashley Klang