Submitted photo of Holly Sharpe, courtesy of Laurie Pfaff LG’09.
We are pleased to announce that Holly Sharpe, a graduate of the LG Class of 2004, has been named Outstanding Alumnus 2023. Chris White ’06 and Jocelyn Sikorski ’07 nominated Holly sharing, “Holly has been a cheerleader and ambassador for Leadership Genesee in many capacities over the past 19 years and has volunteered for LG even before she was a member, helping with the group’s Outdoor Leadership Challenge.”
Holly shares, “As a lifelong community member, I thought I knew much of what happens in Genesee County and was surprised to see and hear there is much more than most people know or realize. I want to help others learn and experience this amazing program.”
Holly served on LG’s Steering Committee for two terms, 2016-2022, serving as Co-Chair from 2020-2021. Leadership Genesee director, Peggy Marone LG ’02 shares, “Holly has been a close friend and advocate for all things community and Leadership Genesee. She has taught me a great deal about being an effective facilitator to find ways to help others grow in their abilities and confidence. That’s what leadership is all about and that is who Holly is.” She continues to facilitate LG’s Outdoor Leadership Challenge each year, one of the most impactful sessions in the year-long curriculum.
Holly has been a very active alumnus volunteering for LG, attending events and continued educational opportunities, as well as financially supporting the organization through alumni dues and donations. “I have not only learned and become more educated and aware of our community, but I have also made new connections and lifelong friendships,” said Holly.
Holly served on the CCE Board of Directors and the MHA Board of Directors, co-chairing their golf tournament. She served as a United Way Campaign Loan Executive and a City of Batavia School District volunteer. Professionally, Holly worked for the Genesee County YMCA as a fitness director and Associate Executive Director. During her tenure with the YMCA, she was recognized as a trainer of trainers for the YUSA.
Holly has her own training studio, Sharpe Training, LLC. She is a recognized and respected trainer traveling internationally for FitBodies, Inc. Group Exercise.
When asked what Leadership Genesee means to her and what she’d say to someone interested in the program, her answer was simple, “Leadership Genesee means community, collaboration, connection, learning, and a valuable resource. Run, don’t walk, and apply, you will have zero regrets!”
LG Director Marone is thrilled that she is being given the Outstanding Alumnus Award. “This award signifies someone who has worked not only to strengthen Leadership Genesee but who serves Genesee County generously as a true servant leader, a wonderful mentor for all of us.”
Holly will be honored at the LG graduation on Thursday, Nov. 30 at Terry Hills.
The Outstanding Alumnus Award is sponsored by Skip Helfrich of Human Energies. Leadership Genesee is a program of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities. For more information about Leadership Genesee, please visit our website at http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/leadership-genesee.
