Association of Leadership Programs
From Kentucky to the Granite State: How ALP Connections Sparked a New Program in New Hampshire
When leaders connect, innovation follows. That’s exactly what happened when Will Stewart, Executive Director of Leadership New Hampshire, and Janice Way, President & CEO of Leadership Kentucky, crossed paths at the 2024 ALP National Conference in Providence, Rhode Island.During the conference, Janice shared the success of New Executives to Kentucky, a one-day immersion designed to help senior leaders new to the Commonwealth quickly understand its culture, people, and opportunities. The New Executives to Kentucky initiative came to fruition over a decade ago, following a strategic planning retreat held by the Leadership Kentucky Board. The concept immediately resonated with Will.
“Almost immediately, I thought that such a program could be very beneficial in helping to acclimate new, senior-level leaders relocating to New Hampshire,” Stewart recalled. “Our state’s culture, way of doing business, and access to government can be very different than in other parts of the country — even the rest of New England.”
Building on a Proven Model
Following the conference, Will reached out to Janice to learn more.
The inaugural New Executives to New Hampshire event took place earlier this fall, welcoming senior leaders new to the Granite State. Much like its Kentucky counterpart, the experience was invite-only, free to attend (thanks to sponsor support), and also included spouses.“She graciously shared details and documents about that event, which I then used as the basis to create New Executives to New Hampshire,” Will said.
While the structure mirrored the Kentucky model, the New Hampshire team made intentional adjustments to reflect local culture.
Shared Roots in ALP“Similarities included giving newcomers some quintessential state experiences, apple orchards and covered bridges versus horse farms and bourbon,” Will said. “We focused more on state culture and process, how to fit in here, develop relationships, get involved, and get things done.”
Both leaders credit their connection through ALP for making the collaboration possible.
“Without ALP, Will and I probably would not have met, at least not this quickly, to share the information and discuss the program,” Janice shared.
Will echoed that sentiment: “Simply put, this collaboration would not have happened without our connection via ALP in general and the 2024 conference in particular.”
Impact and Early Success
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. One attendee summed up the day:
Interest is already growing, with those who missed the inaugural experience reaching out to ask when it will be offered again. Will plans to make New Executives to New Hampshire a biennial program, ensuring strong participation and continued impact.“New Executives to New Hampshire was exceptionally well planned and thoughtfully designed. The networking aspect was especially valuable, and I gained a deeper understanding of New Hampshire.”
A Model for Collaboration
For Janice, seeing the program replicated in another state is deeply rewarding.
Both leaders agree that this collaboration perfectly illustrates what ALP is all about: connection, idea-sharing, and collective growth.“Every person I’ve met through ALP has been willing and excited to share information,” she said. “If you see something that could benefit your own community, reach out and ask.”
Check out photos from the first-ever New Executives to New Hampshire experience here.
Statewide program leaders are encouraged to participate in ALP's monthly Statewide Programs Affinity Group to stay connected. Learn more here.
About Janice Way, President and CEO, Leadership Kentucky
Janice Way, a graduate of the 1987 Leadership Kentucky program, has served as the president of Leadership Kentucky since 2015. Previously, Janice worked for St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Northern Kentucky where she was assistant vice president of development. During her 25 years at St. Elizabeth and The St. Luke Hospitals (before the two hospital systems merged), she served as director of public relations and marketing, supervised community and legislative relations and led the St. Luke Community Foundation as vice president. Janice has served as a member of the board of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. She is a member and former chair of the Northern Kentucky Board for KET. You can reach Janice at jw@leadershipky.org.
About Will Stewart, Executive Director, Leadership New Hampshire
Will Stewart has served as Executive Director of Leadership New Hampshire since July 2024. Prior roles include Executive Director of Stay Work Play New Hampshire; President of the Greater Derry Londonderry Chamber of Commerce; and Vice President of Economic Development & Advocacy at the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.
About the Association of Leadership Programs
The Association of Leadership Programs serves over 280 community leadership programs across the United States and beyond. The association strives to enhance the well-being of all communities through the work of community leadership programs. Founded in 2010, the mission of ALP is to strengthen the effectiveness of leadership programs and professionals. Authentic and organic community leadership development requires taking a critical look at situations, opportunities, and challenges our communities face through the lens of the entire community and pursuing a course that enhances the well-being of all.