Ellington

Leadership Walker County will celebrate its graduation May 22 with a catered luncheon at the Walker County Civic Center and is inviting the community to see just what the group is all about.

Leadership Walker County Director Glenda Jones said the class introduces participants to the county’s hidden treasures.

“Leadership is by example,” she said. “You learn as much about yourself as you do about the class. It builds respect and character. You leave a better person because it gives you enthusiasm and an open mind for everything you do so that you can achieve success.”

The nine-month program is perfect for business and civic individuals interested in increasing their knowledge of Walker County and establishing community contacts, she said. The class meets one day a month to tour a variety of aspects important to the local community.

“I’ve been involved with the leadership classes for seven years and every year I learn something new about the community,” Jones said.

Susan Tankersley, Walker County Leadership chairwoman, said participants learn about Walker County not only on a local level, but also on a state level. This round’s topic sessions included local government, state government, health care and social services, industry and economic development, tourism and education.

Rhonda Poulson, RN and director of critical care at Memorial Hospital, said she has lived in Walker County for 10 years and wanted to be more involved in the community she served.

“I’m leaving the class with education of what a small town community needs to sustain livelihood, and you need people involved to support it,” Poulson said. “I was thoroughly engaged and amazed at what we have here.”

Jacky Overby, staff development coordinator of the Jimmy Simpson Foundation, said there are so many different aspects to Walker County that a lot of people don’t know about.

“The class allows you to connect with people in and outside of the class from all different backgrounds of business that I would not get to meet every day,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity to see, meet and learn about what you do not get to do on a daily basis.”

North Georgia YMCA, Camp New Dawn, the Battlefield Pilot Club and You-One Productions will have featured spotlight tables and will speak about their organizations at the graduation event. Attendees are invited to visit these tables during registration and after the event. The program will begin promptly at 11:50 a.m.

The cost to attend is $15 for Chamber members and $25 for non-Chamber members. Registration includes a meal provided by No Small Affair. Those wishing to attend must register online by visiting http://business.walkercochamber.com/events/details/membership-luncheon-93. Registration ends at midnight on Sunday, May 20 and no walk-ins will be accepted.