As the seasons of spring and summer are upon us – windows are open, the sounds of music are in the air, and the fragrance of nature embrace us – our hearts open to the opportunities that are ahead of us.

At the start of April, I began a 6 month intensive course through a program, CEO NOW,  designed by Elevate Hennepin, and funded by Hennepin County for the purpose of scaling small businesses. It is required to apply and interview and be accepted into the program, and I was elated and honored to have been chosen to be a part of this 20+ group of inspiring small business owners, all of us hungry to improve ourselves and our businesses, to serve our customers the best way we can. The class meets about every other week, for 3 hours, with small mentor groups that meet in between class.  It is a big commitment not only to be willing to be vulnerable with each other, but the time to study and prepare to openly participate with our fellow classmates. In October, there will be a formal graduation ceremony, and we will all leave with a clearly defined 3 Year Strategic Plan to reach our goals. Each year, we will be held accountable by  Hennepin County to ensure we are on track, and give us additional support or resources as needed.  We are 6 weeks in, and no doubt I know this is where I am supposed to be this year.

Without the team at Opus to “hold the fort down” while I commit myself to my studies, there is no way I could participate in this class. I am so thankful for them, and eternally grateful to our customers who have trusted me and our school to inspire them and their children in the joy of music.

As I write this message, I am feeling great joy; I thank you all for bringing this joy into my life.

Yours in Service,

Kathy Petersen
President and Founder, Opus Music Academy