MonticelloLive

The inaugural class of the Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute (CLDI) met for their first session on April 17, 2007 on the campus of the University of Arkansas at Monticello.

The Class of 2007 includes the following: Dan Austin, Cori Batts, Johnnie Bolin, Russ Corker, Larry Coulter, Ranelle Eubanks, Charles Faulk, Ann Goad, Reathel Harris, Candace Jeffress, Tawana Jones, Scott Kuttenkuler, Jeff Look, Sandy Patrick, Pat Webb, and Deana Wheeler.

The students are from Southeast Arkansas and include a wide range of careers, ages, backgrounds, and knowledge. When asked why they wanted to participate in a leadership program, they indicated that they wanted to learn more about the Cornerstone region and how they can take the information back to their communities to help not only their local area, but in the region, and in the state.

The 16 class members heard about the importance of leadership in our communities from Dr. Jack Lassiter, Chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Monticello, Judge Damon Lampkin, Drew County Judge, and Kenny Gober, president of the Southeast Arkansas Cornerstone Coalition, Inc.

William H. Braswell, D.Min., conducted the day-long class about the principles of leadership. “Transformational leadership is a way of being rather than a role to play.” said Braswell, “This program module equips the student with leadership skills applicable to the work place, home, and the community.”

The future of Southeast Arkansas is more dependent than ever on the quality, commitment, and ability to work together from our leaders. The Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute is designed for leaders who want to make a difference in the Arkansas Cornerstone region. It is a nine month, skills-based program that broadens participants’ perspectives, examines regional and community issues, expands opportunities to develop friendships from all segments of the community, and strengthens leadership skills. The participants have a unique opportunity to work with area CEOs, professionals, elected officials, and other fellow leaders in the region as they address community problems.

The Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute is a program of the Southeast Arkansas Cornerstone Coalition, Inc. Realizing that leadership is an important ingredient needed to develop a thriving and successful community, the Cornerstone Coalition, Inc. developed and implemented this leadership institute to nurture future leaders in Southeast Arkansas.

The Southeast Arkansas Cornerstone Coalition, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting regional economic development in Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Desha, Drew and Lincoln counties.