Damon Shoholm

Damon Shoholm: Extraordinary leadership is all around us

May 19, 2022

Extraordinary leadership is all around us — and sometimes we miss it because we have one definition of what leadership looks like. At the Bush Foundation, our annual Bush Fellowship program helps shine a light on the amazing things individuals are doing by thinking bigger about what is possible.

Every year we are humbled by the incredible talent and brilliance of our neighbors in the region, and this year is no different. I’m immensely grateful for the opportunity to introduce you to our 2022 class of Bush Fellows.

This year’s Fellows are changing the way we think about mental health services by combining traditional and cultural practices; reimagining the experiences of youth in the foster care system; and centering Indigenous practices in childbirth. That’s to name just a few.

These are the extraordinary things that ordinary people are capable of doing. I can’t tell you how much I’ve learned already from these Fellows. It’s not an exaggeration to say that listening to their stories is helping me think differently as a leader, too.

Mostly, I’m energized by the example these Fellows set for their peers and their communities. They lead with who they are — their unique knowledge, experiences and relationships are at the center of their leadership. I’m just thankful that the Foundation is able to support every step of their journey into being more effective leaders and changemakers. 

I hope you enjoy learning more about each of the Fellows as much as we have. Join me in congratulating them!

-Damon