PROGRAM

  • CIVIC ISSUES

    · Arts and Culture

    · Economic Development

    · Education· Justice & Safety

    · Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

  • LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

    · Connecting

    · Emotional Intelligence

    · Aligning with Purpose

    · Legacy

    · Self-Awareness

    · Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

  • BOARD SERVICE TRAINING

    · Fundraising

    · Governance

    · Board Placement

    · Philanthropy

    · Public/Private Partnerships

    · Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

  • WELLNESS

    · Stress Management 

    · Mindfulness Practices

    · Meditation Techniques

    · Work-Life Integration

    · Breathing Exercises 

    · Movement Practices

    · Journaling for Reflection & Clarity

The Advisory Committee of the San Benito Leadership Institute recognizes the critical importance of demonstrating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in all aspects of its program. Communities today are navigating complex conversations about race, equity, and inclusion that influence political, economic, social, and civic life. These discussions, while challenging, have the potential to both unite and strengthen communities. The SBLI Advisory Committee believes that fostering leadership skills in this context is essential and that open, honest conversations about equity and race can empower leaders to create lasting, positive change.

FOCUS ON DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

Leaders face increasing demands in their personal and professional lives, making self-care and resilience critical to sustaining their capacity to lead. SBLI integrates wellness practices into its curriculum to help participants manage stress, build resilience, and foster work-life balance. By prioritizing mindfulness, emotional well-being, and personal reflection, the program supports leaders in cultivating a healthier, more sustainable approach to their leadership journeys.

FOCUS ON WELLNESS

The San Benito Leadership Institute (SBLI) seeks participants who are committed to making a lasting impact in San Benito County. Qualified candidates are emerging or established leaders with a strong desire to enhance their leadership skills and take responsibility for improving the quality of life in the region. Ideal participants should demonstrate a willingness to engage in civic issues, have the support of their organization, and commit the time and effort required to fully participate in the program. Admission is competitive. Tuition for the program year is $2,000.

PROSPECTIVE PARTICIPANTS

Benefits to Sponsor Organizations

  • Expands your employee’s network of professional and civic contacts.

  • Demonstrates investment in your employee’s growth and development.

  • Enhances your organization’s visibility within the community.

  • Provides your employee with leadership training tailored to San Benito County.

  • Develops systems thinkers who are equipped to address local challenges.

  • Strengthens your organization’s capacity for civic engagement and collaboration.

Benefits to Participants

  • Broadens and diversifies your professional network across sectors.

  • Deepens your knowledge of San Benito County’s history, challenges, and opportunities.

  • Provides exposure to influential community and civic leaders.

  • Prepares you for service on nonprofit boards, committees, or in elected office.

  • Strengthens your ability to navigate conflict, lead collaboratively, and inspire change.

  • Offers tools for self-awareness, confidence building, and work-life integration.

Benefits to Community

  • Cultivates a network of informed, compassionate, and capable leaders.

  • Strengthens collaboration between public and private sectors.

  • Engages new voices and perspectives in shaping the future of San Benito County.

  • Fosters meaningful connections between leaders and local organizations.

  • Builds a foundation of equity-driven leadership committed to long-term community well-being.

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MEET OUR TEAM

  • Program Facilitator

    DR. KATHLEEN ROSE

    Program Facilitator

    Dr. Kathleen Rose is a servant leader who built a 40-year career in higher education focused on community development and student success. She has extensive experience in mentoring emerging leaders, identifying leadership strengths, and supporting equitable leadership practice.

  • Program Facilitator

    CORINNE KAPPELER

    Program Facilitator

    Corinne’s personal mission is to unlock other people’s potential. She is passionate about empowering others and leading initiatives that generate opportunities among disadvantaged communities. She is an executive leadership coach who has worked with social impact leaders in discovering the mindset needed to envision and pursue new possibilities.

  • Program Facilitator

    KATHLEEN SHERIDAN

    Program Facilitator

    Kathleen Sheridan is an artist, administrative consultant, and yoga teacher with over 40 years in the health and wellness industry. She facilitates strategic planning for cities and non-profits, co-owns Sally Street Studios with her husband, ceramic artist Kent Child, and has been an Advanced Studies Certified yoga teacher for 32 years.

  • BRENDA WEATHERLY

    BRENDA WEATHERLY

    Program Manager

    Brenda Weatherly holds a BA in Journalism/Advertising from CSU Fresno and brings over 30 years of diverse professional experience, including leadership roles at the Hollister Downtown Association and the Community Foundation for San Benito County. A 2006 graduate of Leadership San Benito and a certified life coach, she is passionate about leadership development and education, spearheading the creation of the San Benito Leadership Institute.

Step into leadership and make a lasting impact on San Benito County! SBLI offers a unique opportunity to grow your skills, expand your network, and inspire change in your community. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience.

2025-26 Cohort Application Period: March 1 - May 16, 2025

A group of people engaged in a discussion around a table in a conference room.

“SBLI has given me plenty of tools to grow in my leadership role.”

Four people in green shirts having a discussion near a conference table with papers and a water bottle, in a room with large glass doors showing a patio outside.

“Being a part of SBLI, to me, means committing to growing my leadership skill set for the benefit of myself and my community.”