Meet current class member Lorene Vilela!
Lorene was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and met her husband, who is from Ottumwa, in Rio de Janeiro in 1982. She graduated from William Penn University at the age of 52 in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and two endorsements – reading and English as a second language. “My passion is to teach ESL and U.S. Citizenship classes – which I have been doing for the last seven years at Indian Hills Community College.”
When asked about why she wanted to participate in Ottumwa Leadership Academy, Lorene stated, “I have an associate degree in leadership studies, but I knew the Ottumwa Leadership Academy could teach me skills to make me a better leader. I also knew that it would be a great opportunity to get to know not only our local and state leaders, but also to make a difference in our community. I am very thankful for this opportunity and grateful to Indian Hills Community College for nominating me.”
Lorene’s top five CliftonStrengths are: Maximizer, Ideation, Individualization, Futuristic, and Strategic. “It was very helpful to me learning my CliftonStrengths. Now, I can consciously use my talents to be more efficient and effective.”
“The Ottumwa Leadership Academy classes have made a positive impact on me. I expanded my network, learned valuable leadership skills, and gained important insights of our community. I am looking forward to give a presentation for our group project. I am certain that our project will have a positive impact in our community year after year.”
