The Anderson Center was founded in 1998 with the goal of fostering economic and professional growth in Greater Minnesota. Recognizing a need for high-quality, accessible leadership and management development programs, they sought to equip leaders with competencies to improve their organizations and contribute to regional growth. Rollie and Harold Anderson, along with a consistent and dedicated board of directors, saw firsthand the transformative power of leadership development. They envisioned a place where leaders could collaborate, share experiences, and grow. That vision inspired Anderson Center's participant-based forums, which emphasize real-world applications through case studies, discussion, and action planning.
“Anderson Center has deep roots in Central Minnesota,” shared President Aleisha Gaalswyk Stephens. “Founded over 25 years ago by Rollie Anderson and his father Harold Anderson – visionary leaders in the community – our work has always been committed to this region and beyond as we expand to Greater Minnesota. Central Minnesota remains our home because of the vibrant, collaborative community and its potential for growth.”
Their offering is unique because they provide engaging, participant-centered forums where leaders actively learn from each other. “Our programs combine proven methodologies – like Harvard Business School case studies and FranklinCovey curriculum – with facilitation by experienced Discussion Leaders,” explained Leadership Development Business Partner Becka Clobes. “We create an environment where leaders from diverse industries can exchange ideas, tackle challenges, and drive meaningful growth. Our interactive learning approach, highly skilled facilitators, and focus on real-world application set us apart. Each forum is tailored to meet the needs of participants and includes opportunities for personalized action planning. The participant discussions foster collaboration and accountability, ensuring leaders leave with tools they can immediately apply.”
In addition to their partnerships with Harvard Business Publishing and FranklinCovey, Anderson Center collaborates with the Minnesota Initiative Foundations and Granite Partners’ Women in Leadership Fund through the Central Minnesota Community Foundation, which provides scholarships and resources for smaller businesses and nonprofits. These relationships help ensure that more organizations have access to high-quality leadership development opportunities. They also partner with top-tier venues such as Madden’s on Gull Lake, Granite Innovations, and Grand View Lodge, where they create immersive, distraction-free environments that enhance learning and personal growth. These collaborations are foundational to the work they do and help them provide a comprehensive, impactful experience for all clients.
“Witnessing real transformation – when leaders gain confidence, implement new strategies, and see measurable results in their organizations, is incredibly exciting,” said Aleisha. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see how our work contributes to growth for individuals, businesses, and communities. A challenge we often see is making leadership development accessible to organizations of all sizes, particularly smaller businesses and nonprofits. Through scholarships and partnerships, we work hard to address this barrier and ensure that everyone has access to high-quality development opportunities. The Central MN business community is collaborative, innovative, and supportive. Organizations here value relationships and working together to achieve success. Being part of this network allows us to grow, learn, and give back in meaningful ways.”
“The support we receive from local businesses, leaders, and organizations is invaluable,” Becka shared. “By participating in our forums, sharing success stories, and spreading the word about Anderson Center, the community helps us fulfill our mission of economic progress through world-class leadership development. Anderson Center distinguishes itself by utilizing Discussion Leaders who bring practical, real-world expertise directly from the organizations we serve. These Discussion Leaders are not just facilitators but active professionals who draw from their practical knowledge to guide forum participants, helping them explore ideas from fresh perspectives. Many of our Discussion Leaders volunteer their time and donate their fees back to Anderson Center.”
The Anderson Center believes that better leaders create better organizations, which build stronger communities. “For over 25 years, we’ve helped leaders transform their leadership and drive meaningful change. Whether you’re an executive, manager, or emerging leader, there’s a forum for you at Anderson Center. Anderson Center builds trusted partnerships with organizations to become an external resource to HR teams. We work with HR teams to strategize and draft Leadership Development Plans annually that benefit the unique needs of each organization.”
Learn more, get involved, and view their 2025 calendar of offerings at www.anderson-center.org/.
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