Celebrating Our Community-A Special Evening

Chatting in the beautiful Carolands Ballroom, guests enjoyed reconnecting.

The “Celebrating Our Community” event on April 25, 2024 gave Leadership Council SMC the opportunity to thank the many people who have contributed to our success. Over a hundred attendees joined us for a light dinner in the glorious setting of the Carolands Chateau.

The evening’s agenda was light, allowing time for guests to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones. During the evening’s program, Co-Presidents Kaarin Hardy and Margi Power welcomed and thanked Leadership Council SMC’s board and advisory council members, Immersion Program current participants, alumni, and speakers, community and city partners, sponsors, and donors. “At our monthly Learning Days, we are impressed by the leaders in the class,” said Kaarin. “As I see all of you celebrating with us, I am again humbled by the amazing group of leaders who have consistently supported Leadership Council SMC. We appreciate each one of you.”

Kaarin and Margi specifically honored David Mendell, a Founding Board Member, for his significant commitment, engagement, and service to Leadership Council SMC. David will be leaving the board on June 30, 2024.

Alumni were invited to reflect on their experiences in the Emerging Leaders or Leadership CORPS programs, by adding comments to posters situated around the venue. During the evening’s program, the Alumni Advisory Council shared their plans for outreach and the launch of the Leadership Council SMC Alumni Group on LinkedIn. Any Leadership Council SMC Immersion Program alumni interested in joining the Alumni Advisory Council were encouraged to email info@leadershipcouncilsmc.org for more information.

The evening was filled with fun conversation, good food, and laughter, making it an evening to remember.

Special thanks to those who helped make "Celebrating Our Community" a wonderful event:

  • Franklin Templeton, Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton, and Tiffany Hong, SVP Chief Administrative Officer
  • Mavie Mendelson, Executive Director, Carolands Foundation, and her staff including Susan, Willie and Madina, and docents Paul Price and Tom Larson
  • Celebrating Our Community” Organizing Team: Marie Chuang, Councilmember, Town of Hillsborough, and Jason Ting, Wealth Management Advisor, Ting & Associates at Merrill Lynch
  • Daisy Li, Moonstar Charitable Organization, Caterer and alumna of the Leadership CORPS Class of 2022
  • Elio D’Urzo, Sappore Italiano Restaurant
  • Eva Zemeño, Rustic Postres