National Leadership Network (NLN) was honored to be featured in the national PBS series America at a Crossroads: Building Trust Across Difference, which aired on Wednesday, July 9. This pilot series explores how communities across the country are working to rebuild trust in divided times—and how local leadership plays a critical role in that effort.
The episode spotlighted the innovative work of Civity and its national partners—the Association of Leadership Programs (ALP), National Leadership Network (NLN) and Leadership Rhode Island—as they foster meaningful connections across differences and strengthen civic trust through community-based leadership.
While national headlines often focus on a divided America, many individuals are stepping up at the local level to address pressing issues and build stronger, more connected communities. As part of her America at a Crossroads series, journalist Judy Woodruff visited Rhode Island to highlight grassroots efforts that are rebuilding trust one relationship at a time.
One such effort is led by Karl Wadensten (2017 Nu II), CEO of VIBCO, who encourages collaboration and innovation through a modular design approach in his factory. In Providence, the state’s urban core, Angie Ankoma (2014, Kappa II) is advancing public health by focusing on essential needs like housing, nutrition, education, and employment. She serves on the board of the West Elmwood Housing Development Corporation, which created a 69-unit loft housing complex and adjacent community spaces, including a garden that provides fresh produce to residents. Ankoma underscores the urgency of the housing crisis, noting that Rhode Island needs to build nearly 2,000 units each year to meet current demand. The program showcased our collaboration with alumni and community partners who are leading with empathy, bridging divides, and demonstrating what it means to build trust through action.
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