By: Marla Zwinggi, LG ‘22
When people describe Cleveland as a small city–a place where everyone knows everyone–they may not fully grasp the charm of Geauga County, a region where close-knit communities and meaningful connections thrive even more so. As a current Board Member and alumna of the “best class” of 2022, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with Esther and Gustavo Pla, Heritage Program graduates and, believe it or not, individuals with whom I first became acquainted in the early 1990s when I was about ten years old.
Gustavo is a retired Spanish professor who worked at University School (US) in Hunting Valley. Both of my brothers attended US and were Gustavo’s students. Although it’s been quite a few decades since I’ve seen the Plas, it was amazing to chat over coffee, learn about their experiences in the Heritage Program, and let them know that both my brothers pursued Spanish language as their respective careers. Talk about coming full circle and establishing meaningful connections right around the bend.
The Heritage Program, which has been a cornerstone of Leadership Geauga since its inception in 2020, aims to introduce participants to the unique challenges and opportunities of Geauga County. This program provides personal access to community leaders, behind-the-scenes site tours, and in-depth discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of the county’s dynamics. It also motivates participants to align their passions with the community’s needs and potentially contribute their years of experience in various industries through volunteer work.
Esther Pla’s journey through the program came first in 2023. A trained nurse with a background in behavioral health, Esther served as the CEO of Connections, a major health organization that was eventually sold to Signature Health. After retiring in 2017, Esther remained active in the community, notably serving on the Family Pride board, where she mentored current Leadership Geauga board member Angie Daughtery. Her participation in the Heritage Program reinvigorated her commitment to local causes, leading her to rejoin the Family Pride board and continue her impactful work.
“My favorite was History Day with Dr. Barri. She was just wonderful. I had no idea all of the things going on in the county,” said Esther. “And we’ve lived here for so long.”
Gustavo Pla completed the Heritage Program a year later in Spring 2024. His experience in the program has had a direct impact on his professional life even though he is retired. Recently sworn into the Geauga County Court System as an interpreter through CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), Gustavo’s volunteer role involves working closely with non-English-speaking individuals who need to navigate a variety of issues. Gustavo credits the encouragement and support from Leadership Geauga Executive Director Meredith Ashkettle and Marketing and Outreach Manager Amy Murfello for igniting his passion for civic engagement.
“Meredith and Amy both did a phenomenal job with the Heritage Program,” shared Gustavo. “They were really wonderful to light a fire under me. They were an inspiration.”
The Heritage Program’s design includes weekly sessions over six weeks, each Wednesday, where participants tour various local enterprises and engage with community leaders. For Esther and Gustavo, these sessions were eye-opening. They discovered the extensive range of business ventures and innovations within Geauga County, challenging their long-held perceptions of the area as a bit of a sleepy region. The program not only broadened their understanding but also inspired them to become more deeply involved in the community. “Small businesses thrive here. Things get made here. It’s important,” noted Esther.
Esther and Gustavo’s experiences exemplify how the Heritage Program can catalyze personal growth and community involvement despite being retirees. For those considering participation, their story underscores the program’s potential to foster meaningful connections and encourage civic engagement. As Geauga County continues to grow and evolve, the impact of the Heritage Program and Leadership Geauga as a whole becomes increasingly vital, helping to bridge the gap between residents and the dynamic opportunities within their own backyard.