Western Governors' Foundation

After the short wait for pictures, I’m excited to share my incredible experience in the Western Govornors’ Leadership Institute (WGLI). Two weeks ago, I was a Utah delegate in the WGLI. As a delegate, I heard from past and current Western Governors and learned from their breadth of experience. I had many opportunities to interact with the other delegates and am grateful to have met them. Their accolades and ambition inspire me. Additionally, I had the chance to attend the Western Governors’ Association annual meeting and see the bipartisan efforts of the WGA. I am thankful to the WGLI for giving me this opportunity to be part of this brief cohort and explore bipartisanship, leadership, and growth. I look forward to applying what I've learned and reflecting on this experience. One takeaway I had was a message from former Governor Herbert to the delegates. "Have a vision, understand your role, sit down, talk to each other, and work together." We can all work together to create a better future, and I am so grateful to witness that progress. Thank you, Western Governors' Foundation and Western Governors' Association. I also want to thank Anna Thielen/Caplan and Andee Baker for their effort in planning this experience.

Are we loving America's national parks to death? This summer, tourism will continue to surge, putting a strain on bridges, restrooms, and other vital infrastructure. Check out my recent piece in Deseret News to see how rethinking park management can help protect "America's Best Idea" for future generations. 🌲 https://lnkd.in/gfdvGYqD

Earlier this month, I represented North Dakota, along with my fellow ND delegate Gracie Lian, MPA at the 2024 Western Governors’ Leadership Institute. WGLI provided wonderful opportunity to network with policy leaders and delegates from throughout the West, all while embracing bipartisanship, learning, and leadership. Many thanks to the numerous individuals who helped make this event possible!

My mural in Park River, ND, is completed. It measures in at nearly 10’ tall by 18’ wide! The mural is titled "Strawberry Quilt." The structure, with its two-tiered block-like border and interior panels, is inspired by quilt construction and local quilt-making traditions. The strawberry imagery reflects a cherished garden product and popular home decoration motif. The design’s familiar structure, lush colors, and garden references combine to conjure up comfort, sweet memories, and warm days in the sun. The mural is a win all around; it’s personally exciting, culturally relevant to Park River, and attractive to all audiences and ages. It was a joy to design and install this mural, adding new color and excitement to Park River’s downtown.

🌟 Reflecting on my experience with the Western Governors' Leadership Institute 🌟 This month, I had the privilege of representing California as a delegate at the Western Governors' Leadership Institute. It was an enriching experience that allowed me the opportunity to engage directly with leaders and fellow delegates from across the region. Thoughtful discussions focused on the pressing issues that face our states —from environmental challenges to economic opportunity. The insights shared by the governors and the diverse perspectives brought by my peers provided a unique blend of ideas that underscored the importance of collaborative governance. I am deeply grateful for the chance to contribute to these important conversations and to learn from some of the most dedicated public servants in the nation. This experience not only broadened my perspective but also reinforced my commitment to public service. My heartfelt appreciation to everyone involved for their dedication to fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation in the West. Let’s continue to work together to build a resilient and prosperous region for all. Thank you Western Governors' Foundation, Western Governors' Association, Anna Thielen/Caplan, Andee Baker, Jack Waldorf, James Ogsbury, and my illustrious fellow California delegate Mark Borges.

I completed my fellowship with the Western Governors' Foundation two weeks ago, by attending the Western Governors' Association's Annual Meeting in Tahoe, California. Under the guidance of my outstanding supervisors, Anna Thielen/Caplan, and James Ogsbury I was able to share the important message of bipartisanship with the 2024 Western Governors' Leadership Institute Delegation, promote the West through the high school art competition Celebrate the West, and make lasting connections with staff and attendees. Including, former delegates Gustaf Vanderdonck and David C. Saavedra, MPA. The opportunity to be introduced to the Western Governors' Foundation as a 2023 Leadership Institute Delegate, and continue to grow as a Foundation Fellow is an experience appreciate and will never forget. In this position, I was taught skills and more importantly, values. I value bipartisanship, and it is a mindset I will carry forth as I continue my career in public service. #WestGov2024

It was an honor to represent Oklahoma at the WGA Annual Meeting and to learn about the value and necessity of bipartisanship. I love the western states and the strong ties that our governors share - they are inspiring to watch! Western Governors' Foundation Western Governors' Association

Words can’t express how enriching and valuable this experience was. Partipatcing in the Western Governors’ Leadership Institute as the sole delegate for the state of New Mexico was an immense privilege and honor. I wanted to say thank you too Anna Thielen/Caplan and Western Governors' Foundation/Western Governors' Association for granting me this opportunity to be surrounded by some of the best leaders in the United States and the world. I am certainly looking forward to the next WGA annual meeting, and continuing to make an impact in my community. One Love🙏🏻