Although attending our D4LC programs is the best way to receive training, leadership should be practiced daily. Find articles written by our educators below.
Be sure to check back regularly to get our latest blog posts.
Discover what’s filling our community bookshelf! In this month’s Worldwide Reading Challenge update, we explore standout authors, reader favorites, and the surprising trends emerging from over 400 books read so far. From fantasy and thrillers to memoirs and historical fiction, the variety reflects a vibrant community of readers hungry for stories and ideas. See the stats, meet this month’s winners, and get inspired to share your own current reads—whether you love epic adventures, gripping mysteries, or thought-provoking nonfiction. Join the conversation and help us reach our 2,025-book goal!
If your “to be read” pile looks more like a mountain than a list, you know how quickly book costs can spiral out of control. This blog explores practical, budget-friendly ways to read widely without breaking the bank. From leveraging multiple library cards and free apps like Libby and Hoopla, to affordable subscriptions like Kindle Unlimited and Audible’s Plus Catalogue, you’ll find strategies to keep your shelves—and your wallet—happy. Whether your TBR is 2 books or 2,000, these tips will help you dive into more stories for less.
Why We Care So Deeply About Books
In a heartfelt reflection, Lisa Montoya shares a simple bookstore visit that sparked a powerful question: “Why do you care so much about books?” Her answer? Because books are magical—they teach, inspire, comfort, and connect us to worlds beyond our own. From childhood memories of being read to, to creating stories with her own children and students, Lisa reminds us that books are more than pages and words. They’re our history, our future, our dreams, and the bridge to understanding ourselves and others.
Inspired by an Instagram discovery, this post dives into the creative “50 Books/50 States” reading challenge and the powerful impact of Evicted by Matthew Desmond. It also highlights the exciting progress of our Worldwide Reading Challenge—including current stats, reader shout-outs, and independent bookstore giveaways—while encouraging readers to keep logging books and helping us reach our 2025 goal. Join the journey at www.TLCEspressions.org!
Meet Izzy, one of our inspiring Leadership Facilitator Interns at The Leadership Center! In this blog, she shares how a lifelong passion for guiding and supporting others—sparked by helping raise her younger siblings—led her to D4LC. From designing impactful workshops to falling in love with Wyoming and the magic of Gilmore Girls, get a glimpse into what makes Izzy such a valued part of our team. Dive into her story and discover why service, community, and connection fuel her purpose.
Leadership isn’t always about standing at the front of the room, giving speeches, or leading big projects. More often, it’s something quieter. Something smaller. Something that feels like no big deal at the time—but ends up meaning everything.
We've read a total of 87,034 pages which averages 339 pages per book. Our shortest book read was 22 pages long and the longest has been 830 pages. I absolultely LOVE the range. We also love that our youngest reader is in the FIRST GRADE! Our hearts are so happy about this.
The importance of reading to children and our latest winners in the Worldwide Reading Challenge.
Check our latest from winners, books and more from our Worldwide Reading Challenge. Also learn about our Friday Night Murder Club.
The joy of books brings us together to form a worldwide community through our Worldwide Reading Challenge. See how the first month went. Find out the titles of the books read and the reader's ranking along with January's winners.
Learn more about our Worldwide Reading Challenge, how we came up with the idea, and how you can participate!
“To practice brotherhood, honor agricultural opportunities and responsibilities, and to develop those qualities of leadership which an FFA member should possess,” we really need to take it to heart and prove to our members that those three pillars matter and can truly be relatable for every FFA member.
"Inclusion and equity are not ignoring our diversity but acknowledging and learning. It's understanding our differences and supporting each other.
This means open conversations, utilizing systems that serve everyone, and creating spaces that are welcoming and safe.
In the end, when everyone has a seat at the table, we and our businesses will be better for it."
The story of our Urban Farm began with the gentle hum of bees and a visionary collaboration with the Edgerton Explorit Center. What emerged was not just a farm but a narrative of growth. Guided by three hives and John Boeder's tender care, we harvested golden honey and delicate honeycomb.
In the crisp September air, The Leadership Center played host to a convergence of artistic souls, each seeking inspiration and skill refinement under the guidance of nationally renowned instructors. The dynamic quartet of Cindy Briggs, Cynthia Rosen, Cody Kuehl, and Laura Nothern, handpicked by Maile herself, took the helm, promising a transformative experience across a spectrum of mediums.
Our Culinary Experiences align seamlessly with our commitment to enhancing access to educational opportunities in our community. But what sets these classes apart is the delightful twist – not only do you gain culinary wisdom, but you also savor the fruits of your labor as you indulge in the delicious meal you've prepared.
Summer Camps with our great partner, The Edgerton Explorit Center, headed up by D4LC Intern, Hannah Burnside.
But why? The value of exploring life through curiosity.
2 humans, 1 simple action, and a great connection all in a matter of 30 seconds.
The purpose of this conference is to give students the resources and support they need to be successful after high school. My goal is to eliminate as many obstacles as possible for the students.
