Welcome to The Leadership Visalia Connection!


A monthly e-newsletter created just for our alumni community. Each issue will bring you updates on the current class, spotlights on fellow alumni, and meaningful ways to stay involved—whether through volunteering, board service, or reconnecting with old classmates.

Dear Leadership Visalia Alumni,


A huge thank you to our incredible alumni who showed up and gave back at our recent volunteer events! From lending a hand to support a local senior with a home painting project to helping another with yard work, your time, energy, and teamwork made a meaningful difference.


These moments are a powerful reminder of what our alumni network can do when we come together with a shared purpose, supporting our community and each other.


If you missed out this time, do not worry, there will be more opportunities ahead!


-Jena Rodriguez

Leadership Visalia Facilitator

Ag Day Session Highlights:


In April, Leadership Visalia explored the vital connection between agriculture and water through a day of hands-on learning across the region. The program included a panel of local experts discussing water use and collaboration, a dairy demonstration, a tour of the Visalia Unified Farm highlighting student-led ag education, and a visit to the Kaweah Delta Water Conservation District to learn about water systems and SGMA. The day concluded with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Terminus Dam, reinforcing the scale and complexity of regional water management. A key takeaway throughout the experience was the importance of collaboration, innovation, and informed decision-making in securing the future of water and agriculture.

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Community Project: A New Act for Enchanted Playhouse

Inspired by Enchanted Playhouse Theatre Company's (EPTC) powerful impact on local youth as a place of belonging and growth, this year's class project focused on strengthening community connections, building sustainable partnerships, and amplifying EPTC’s visibility.


Their efforts included a brand refresh, updated marketing materials, and guidance for a modernized website to better showcase performances and engage audiences.

They also developed creative events and outreach ideas to sustain momentum and expand EPTC’s reach. This project reflects Leadership Visalia’s mission to support local nonprofits through innovative, actionable strategies that create lasting impact in our community.

Name: Stephanie Benthin

Company: Neighborhood Degree


What year did you graduate from Leadership Visalia?

2009


Where do you currently work and what is your role?

Neighborhood Degree, Founder & CEO

How has Leadership Visalia impacted your personal or professional life?

Leadership Visalia played a significant role in shaping my leadership journey. It helped me build meaningful networks with community partners and gave me a broader perspective on our community’s needs, assets, and opportunities. The relationships I formed with a diverse group of professionals continue to enrich my work today and have strengthened my ability to collaborate for greater impact.


What is one leadership lesson or moment that has stuck with you since the program?

One lasting lesson was the importance of listening deeply to different perspectives before taking action and building networks for collaboration. No one does anything great or lasting alone. Leadership Visalia helped me understand that effective leadership is not just about vision, it’s about relationships, collaboration, and understanding the systems that shape our community.


What are you most passionate about in your career or community work?

I am most passionate about creating opportunities for students and families to thrive. I care deeply about building strong neighborhoods, empowering volunteers and leaders, and helping young people discover their purpose and potential.


What advice would you give someone thinking about joining Leadership Visalia?

Say yes and fully engage in the experience. Be curious, build relationships intentionally, and take time to understand the many layers of our community. The program is an incredible opportunity to grow personally and professionally while expanding your impact.


What’s something fun or unexpected that people might not know about you? (Hidden talent, favorite hobby, etc.)

I love to draw with pencil and paint with acrylics. Creating art is a relaxing and creative outlet for me

COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES:

Arts Visalia

Volunteer Opportunities

Habitat for Humanity of Tulare/Kings Counties

Volunteer Opportunities

Helping One Woman-May Event

Volunteer Opportunities

Randy Hoppert Memorial Golf Classic-
May 22nd

Volunteer Opportunities

Sequoia Riverlands Trust (SRT)

Volunteer Opportunities

The Brave Project

Volunteer Opportunities

Have an Opportunity to Share?


If you have something to share with the Leadership Visalia Alumni Network, please contact Jena Rodriguez to submit your listing.

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