Chris Hill, the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce’s director of marketing and communications, just finished Year 1 of the University of Central Arkansas’ 39th annual Community Development Institute.
In order to create stronger, more resilient communities, the program trains economic development specialists and community leaders. Participants gain knowledge on how to recognize local resources, establish strategic objectives, promote teamwork, and address issues related to the economy and quality of life.
With one week of rigorous training annually, the entire Community Development Institute program lasts three years. Cohorts of participants progress through the program, gaining practical skills they may use back in their communities.
Graduates of the program include Jamie Rayford, chief strategy officer, and Crystal Johnson, CEO of the Batesville Area Chamber.
We’ve personally witnessed how CDI gives executives useful resources that have a significant impact, Johnson added. Chris already improves our job every day with his inventiveness and commitment. I’m eager to watch how he uses this training to share the story of our community in even more impactful ways.
A scholarship from Citizens Bank, a longtime advocate for local leadership development, enabled Hill to participate.
Johnson expressed gratitude to Citizens Bank for its ongoing support of initiatives that increase the capabilities of regional leaders.
The Community Development Institute was established at UCA in 1987 in collaboration with Entergy. With the creation of a national governing and certification body, the Community Development Council, institutes have now spread to Texas, Idaho, Alabama, Illinois, and Delaware.
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