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municipalauthorities.org | 17 E mErging L EadErs s tEp F orward : m&t B ank ’ s “n Ext U p ” L EadErship d EvELopmEnt p rogram B UiLds s kiLLs , C onnECtions , and C ommUnity i mpaCt By John Callahan, Senior Vice President of Government Relations, Mid-Atlantic Region, M&T Bank Voices from the Experience “My participation in the M&T Bank Next Up Leadership program was a great opportunity to expand my networking skills, while also being able to grow individually as a leader. The program offered a very diverse range of participants with different professions, which allowed everyone to share their own experiences and how it relates to their own day-to-day. The DISC assessment and emotional intelligence workshops allowed me to learn how I can connect with others who possess a different working style than I do. It was great to have the sessions spread apart so you can apply these learning experiences, but then to go back and share with the group how you were able to use what was discussed in the sessions. The best part about the program was the collaborative approach. This really made the experience engaging and enjoyable. I have connected with most of the attendees on LinkedIn, which will allow for the ongoing networking opportunities for years to come. I thank M&T bank for this opportunity and the instructors who really put their efforts into making this program successful.” Daulton George, Assistant General Manager, Warminster Municipal Authority “M&T Bank Next Up Leadership program was invaluable - I have made new connections with a diversity group of leaders in my area; a network I hope grows into lifelong professional partnerships. Through the program, we developed a “Personal Vision Statement” that we built a Leadership Development Plan around - my statement: Be a community-driven leader with a high-level emotional intelligence to encourage, influence, and motivate others to be inclusive, build relationships, and continually learn. As a leader of people, I will empower them to cultivate their own goals and lead to success. Furthermore, as an expert in the water sector, I embed natural processes into all infrastructure investments, promoting the health of our ecosystems and communities within urban watersheds.” Claire Maulhardt, PLA, Stormwater Utility Director, Capital Region Water (Harrisburg PA) In an era where leadership agility and cross-sector collaboration are key to thriving organizations, M&T Bank is making a bold investment in tomorrow’s leaders - today . The Next Up Leadership Development Program is an innovative initiative designed to accelerate the growth of emerging leaders from both within M&T Bank and its partner organizations. PMAA members Daulton George of Warminster Municipal Authority and Claire Maulhardt of Capital Region Water participated in the program which is already making waves in Central Pennsylvania and beyond. More Than a Program—A Platform for Growth Next Up is far more than a leadership course. It’s a dynamic, multi-touchpoint learning experience that blends professional development with strategic relationship-building. Created to elevate high-potential talent and enhance client partnerships, the program delivers both immediate takeaways and long-term value. Participants engage in a series of thoughtfully curated experiences that sharpen leadership skills while fostering meaningful cross-sector connections. From emotional intelligence training to real-time strategy workshops, the program is designed to help leaders grow—and help them grow together. The DISC and emotional intelligence assessment workshops helped to identify strengths and opportunities for growth to meet the goals implied in our vision statements. BUT what made this leadership program stand out, above other leadership events I have participated in, was the interactive engagement of each session. Instant bonds were formed with other members of the program as we drilled into what makes an effective leader, and how each of us take a unique approach to mastering those skills based on our style of leadership. Emotionally intelligent communication is key!" A Multi-Touchpoint Experience Next Up’s structure combines virtual and in-person learning experiences to maximize engagement and flexibility. The program kicked off with a virtual orientation, followed by three full-day, in-person workshops that were held over a three-month Continued on page 65.