“When you’re in the midst of growing your own organization, you notice others who are doing it right,” shared Patty Belmonte, referring to SCJ Alliance. Belmonte is the executive director of the now well-established Hands on Children’s Museum and was the master of ceremonies for the 2020 Leadership Thurston County Distinguished Leader Awards.
SCJ Alliance, along with City of Tumwater Administrator John Doan and Retired Supreme Court Justice Gerry Alexander, were the recipients of the 2020 Distinguished Leader Award. Since 2002, Leadership Thurston County (LTC) has annually recognized community leaders who demonstrate outstanding initiative, inspire others, make a significant impact that goes beyond their organizations, and shine through their community support and involvement.
“Over the last 15 years, the principals and the employees of this award-winning engineering and transportation firm have been growing their company and their reputation by cultivating big ideas, expanding their expertise, and honing their quality of work. And, all the while they continue to be immersed in their community,” she said.
Patty continued, “What I think about most when I think about SCJ, is their reputation for excellence and community involvement. They are the kind of people that others notice, admire and want to be connected to. They are people who care—who do the right thing because they believe in it.” She also noted that SCJ’s employees, along with their leaders, serve on nonprofit and school boards, coach youth sports, and sponsor events.
“This is a very meaningful honor, particularly because of the recognition it gives to the culture we’ve created at SCJ. Our employees care…about their colleagues, clients and the community. And they bring their values to all they do,” said SCJ President/ CEO Jean Carr.
LTC is a community leadership development program committed to developing informed, skilled, and committed community leaders representative of the area’s diverse citizenry. Through an annual 10-month program, participants explore issues affecting the community through meetings with local leaders, site visits, and group and individual activities.
With the graduation of the Class of 2020, which includes SCJ’s Cathy McKay, over 735 participants will have completed the Leadership Thurston County program since its founding in 1992.
To apply to participate in next year’s program, visit the LTC website. The application period for the next class is March 1 – April 1, 2020.