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Initiative aims to foster leadership
Regional Chamber of Commerce hosts inaugural "Leadership Fredericksburg" course
BY BILL FREEHLING
Date published: 5/21/2008
BY BILL FREEHLING
A graduation ceremony was held Friday for the first group of participants in a new program aimed at advancing leadership skills in the Fredericksburg area.
The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce organized the program, which is called "Leadership Fredericksburg." The nine-month program is being offered again starting in September.
Twenty-three people attended the inaugural program, which started Sept. 21 and wrapped up at Friday's graduation ceremony at University of Mary Washington's College of Graduate and Professional Studies.
Participants came from local nonprofits, businesses, schools and government agencies. Local businesses sponsored the classes, and a variety of private and public sector leaders served as mentors.
The program's mission is "to advance the Fredericksburg region by educating, energizing and connecting a diverse group of leaders to serve the community."
All-day classes took place Fridays once a month at numerous locations through-out the area. Topics included a review of the region and issues facing it.
Multiculturalism, affordable housing and transportation in the Fredericksburg area were among the issues discussed in the course. A group of class participants spoke on each of the three topics at a graduation ceremony Friday.
"Your challenge is to be leaders," Chamber President Bob Hagan told the graduates at the ceremony.
The Chamber is accepting applications for the second year of Leadership Fredericksburg. Applications are at Fredericksburgchamber.org or by calling 540/373-9400. The new class participants will be announced Aug. 1.
Tuition for Leadership Fredericksburg is $1,500 for Chamber members, $1,200 for Chamber nonprofit members and $1,800 for non-members.
Bill Freehling: 540/374-5405
Email: bfreehling@freelancestar.com
Date published: 5/21/2008
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