Wlaf1450TOP PHOTO: This is the current class of Leadership Campbell County.
By Charlotte Underwood
LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – Leadership Campbell County is now accepting applications through April 30; space is limited and applying online early will help secure a spot.
The course is a “great way to learn more about the community while also improving leadership skills,” according to Leadership Campbell County chair and chamber of commerce board member Rayma Daugherty.
The Leadership Program, sponsored by the Campbell County Chamber of Commerce, was started by a group of community leaders in 1998. More than 227 people have completed the course to date.
“What I value about Leadership Campbell County, is it strengthens our community by educating and inspiring current and emerging leaders to engage in active, lifelong service,” Daugherty said.
She is a Leadership Campbell County class of 2007 graduate.
“We showcase a tour of the best resources and involvement opportunities that Campbell County has to offer. Of course, time prevents the class from visiting every available resource,” Daugherty said. She urged early application as class sizes are limited.
According to course organizers, “Leadership Campbell County brings together a selected group of people that possess a broad variety of leadership abilities, career accomplishments, and volunteer activities to gain insight into complex issues facing the region.”
The class provides the opportunity to network with local leaders, businesses and civic organizations.
Recent course participant Brad Smiddy, who is president of the Campbell Culture Coalition said the class brought together “individuals from different walks of life to learn about each other and Campbell County as a whole.”
“Leadership Campbell County is perfect for anyone who wants to take an active role in our community. The program’s core focus is on community collaboration and enhancement. Whether you have lived in Campbell County your entire life or are new, Leadership Campbell County will surprise you at every turn and give you a new appreciation for this amazing place we call home,” Smiddy said.
The course opens with a one day orientation in June, and then meets one day a month through the conclusion of the program in March with an overnight trip to visit the state capitol.
The tuition of $775 assists with the cost of each program day and the overnight trip to Nashville. Participants must be available one day per month during business hours for the nine-month program. Tuition may be paid by individuals or corporate sponsors. Tuition is nonrefundable and nontransferable.
Businesses, organizations or individuals may nominate and sponsor candidates for the program. Ten to 20 participants are selected based on the following criteria: Demonstrated commitment to serve the Campbell County community, current or potential leadership role within their organization or business, interest in pursuing a community leadership role, and commitment to attend the scheduled sessions.
Applications are available online. For more information call the Chamber office at 423-566-0329 or by email or check Leadership Campbell County out on Facebook.
(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 04/21/2023-6AM-PHOTO COURTESY OF RAYMA DAUGHERTY)