The Livingston-Overton County Chamber of Commerce is accepting new applicants for its Leadership Overton Program.
Chamber President Zach Stephens said the program is designed to develop leadership skills for existing and upcoming leaders. Stephens said participants often realize they are not as connected to the community as they thought.
“I think that one of the big challenges we face as a society now is that, you know, we are not talking to one another so much,” Stephens said. “And so this is a great exposure to just a broad array of the things happening in our community that many people just are not aware of.”
Participants in the program will meet monthly from January to November and have the opportunity to meet local and state government leaders. Stephens said participants will also work together on a group project that is aimed at improving the community.
“That could be, you know, maybe gateway signage is one thing that has happened in the past,” Stephens said. “This year’s class is doing a disc golf course at Dillon Pond, and then we also kind of have, quote unquote, homework assignments where those participants go out into the community outside of our classroom time as well.”
Leadership Overton initially started in 1995 but took a seven-year hiatus in 2017 before returning last year. Stephens said the program is looking for people in Overton County who desire a better connection with the community.
“They could be, you know, a leader in their business, or an inspiring leader,” Stephens said. “We encourage a wide array of people to apply. I think that makes for a better class.”
Stephens said the program will be accepting 15 applicants for the upcoming cycle. The chamber will be accepting applications until October 29.
