Leadership Lexington Alumni take part in Ripple Effects Mapping to Measure Programs Impact

​During the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives (KCCE) one-day conference for Leadership Programs held in May, attendees learned about the importance of exploring and measuring the impact of leadership programs through storytelling. During this discussion, the concept of Ripple Effects Mapping was introduced, which is a versatile evaluation tool intended to collect the untold stories and behind-the-scenes activities that can ‘ripple out’ from a program, leaving a lasting impact on individuals and the greater community. 

​Following the conference, Leadership Lexington was presented with the opportunity to host a Ripple Effects Mapping session using funding from a grant in partnership with the University of Kentucky’s Department of Community and Leadership Development and Vision Granted Consulting.

​On August 30th, a small group of Leadership Lexington alumni, including steering committee members, sponsors, and partners were invited to participate in a 2.5-hour Ripple Effects Mapping session hosted at the Lexington Public Library’s Central Branch. Alumni were selected to participate in the research session through consideration of the following factors: industry representation, program graduation date, alumni engagement, etc. For the research to be as robust and complete as intended, it was important to have diverse representation from the program to capture a holistic view of its impact.
 
The goals of the session were three-fold:

1. To learn how Leadership Lexington has benefitted individuals and the community.
2. To engage diverse voices in reflecting on and shaping future work as we seek to grow and enhance the leadership experience of participants.
3. To collect data that can be used to tell the story of successes to sponsors, alumni, and other key stakeholders.

 
After initial introductions, attendees broke into pairs to reflect on question prompts. These prompts elicited stories of highpoints and achievements based on the individual’s involvement in Leadership Lexington, how that involvement positively affected organizations they are affiliated with, and how changes in the community have resulted from the program.

​During report outs, facilitators and note takers mapped in real-time the discussion amongst participants. Stories guided the discussion and attendees were encouraged to build upon concepts shared by others. Powerful stories of trials and triumphs, group projects with lasting impacts, examples of personal and professional growth, along with recollections of finding a sense of belonging were stories of impact shared during the session.
 
“Having served in this role for 12 years, it was an overwhelming experience to hear the cascading revelations of positive influence the program had across the room and beyond,” said Amy Stout, Program Director and Vice President of Leadership Development.  
 
In coming days, session facilitators from UK and Vision Granted Consulting will code the discussion map using a capitals framework, which will shed light on the strengths of Leadership Lexington, the impact it’s made on individuals and the community, as well as provide a road map for growth opportunities.
 
Stay tuned to our page for the full report as it becomes available.

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