Leading the Way
From small towns to the county’s largest cities, Hamilton County Leadership Academy (HCLA) is beginning its next chapter. Maria Kanger is taking the helm as executive director, bringing a renewed focus on community engagement and empowering purposeful leaders.
Kanger’s experience in higher education administration, professional training and community-focused programming will inform her work.
“The common thread is leadership development. I enjoy that very much,” she says.
Most recently, she served as professional development director at MIBOR REALTOR® Association, managing all professional development programs for more than 10,000 central Indiana real estate professionals.
“HCLA has shaped community leaders for more than three decades, and I look forward to building on that legacy by supporting our alumni, engaging new partners, and elevating the program’s visibility and impact across the county,” she says.
The Academy
HCLA is an immersive 10-month program that equips community leaders with a holistic view of the county, including government, economic development, education, agriculture and infrastructure, among other aspects. Each class session focuses on a different topic, engaging community resources to create authentic and memorable experiences. Recently, the current class attended a panel discussion that included superintendents from all six Hamilton County school corporations and toured Noblesville High School on “Education Day.”
Like many organizations, HCLA navigates the challenges of a rapidly growing and increasingly diverse county. Participants come together from a variety of backgrounds each year. Business, civic and nonprofit professionals from both small communities and larger cities form a diverse group that learns and works together. Kanger notes the importance of keeping a finger on the pulse of communities throughout the county to ensure programming remains relevant.
Building Community Along the Way
The relationships built among class members are perhaps just as important as the curriculum. People who may never have crossed paths learn and work together, build community, and become even better colleagues and leaders.
Kanger believes this is one of the most special aspects of the experience. “They tend to stay in touch, and that forms a professional and personal network that benefits everyone.” Those connections can lead to partnerships, referrals, job leads and friendships, resulting in a broader alumni network that grows each year.
“HCLA has given me meaningful access to Hamilton County leaders, generous sponsor organizations, and a cohort that’s become my community. It’s an experience that strengthens your understanding of the county’s systems while also enhancing your leadership impact,” says Darci Barr, founder and CEO, Plan and Process Consultancy LLC.
As Kanger continues to learn about HCLA, she is most excited about the opportunity to lead and help it grow. “It is really solid, but it’s important to think about how we can make it even better to increase the impact in our communities,” she says.
The application for the Class of 2027 opens Feb. 27.
The Hamilton County Leadership Academy is located in Noblesville. To learn more, visit hcla.net.
