Boys & Girls Club Director Completes Prestigious National Leadership Program

A key leader within the Boys & Girls Club of Washington County has successfully completed a highly competitive national management program, positioning her for enhanced executive leadership. Marquiela Gantt, Director of Operations for the organization, recently graduated from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Leadership NEXT program. This rigorous seven-month initiative is specifically designed to cultivate and prepare a select group of promising professionals for significant leadership roles within the Boys & Girls Club network nationwide. Gantt was among only 26 individuals from across the country chosen for this year’s cohort.

“To say that we are proud of Marquiela for not only being accepted into this highly prestigious program but also completing it would be an understatement,” Club CEO Addie Nardi said. “Marquiela has grown alongside this organization, and she is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to serving young people.”

The Leadership NEXT program involved a series of immersive experiences, including multiple site visits to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America national headquarters in Atlanta, complemented by ongoing virtual learning sessions. Participants were provided with direct, real-time feedback on their leadership styles and were encouraged to experiment with innovative approaches aimed at fostering accelerated learning and achieving both immediate and long-term organizational goals. A key component of the program was the practical application of newly acquired skills and tools, with an emphasis on delivering tangible and measurable results.

“Being selected to participate in Leadership NEXT has been an incredible honor and one of the most transformative experiences of my leadership journey,” Gantt said. “This cohort challenged me to grow, think bigger and see myself not only as the leader I am today, but as the leader I have the potential to become tomorrow. I’m leaving this experience with lifelong friendships, meaningful connections, valuable resources and memories I will cherish forever. Most importantly, I’m leaving with greater confidence, a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper commitment to growing as a leader and serving our organization and the young people we represent. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow and level up alongside such an exceptional group of leaders.”

Gantt’s tenure with the Boys & Girls Club of Washington County began in 2006, initially as a volunteer and part-time Youth Development Professional. After a period away, she rejoined the organization in 2017, working at the Elgin Station Clubhouse. Her career progression within the club saw her move into roles such as Program Manager and Unit Director before her appointment as Director of Operations in 2021. In this current capacity, Gantt has been instrumental in overseeing the expansion of club services, including the establishment of operations within two elementary schools and an extension into Allegany County. She also played a vital role in managing the transition of members during the closure of a previous facility and the subsequent development and preparation for the opening of the new Alice Virginia & David W. Fletcher Center, slated for 2025. The Boys & Girls Club of Washington County currently offers various after-school programs and summer camps in Hagerstown and Frostburg, in addition to operating a 21st Century Community Learning Center and managing a community learning center at Pangborn Elementary School. The organization, founded in 1941, is dedicated to fostering the development of young people into productive, caring, and responsible citizens, serving approximately 800 youth annually.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Boys & Girls Club of Washington County

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