The First Annual Rowan County Civic Leadership Class concluded during the Jan. 21 meeting of the Rowan County Board of Commissioners with a special recognition.

County Manager Aaron Church gave an overview of the inaugural program, which met weekly starting in October. Topics included leadership, county structure, internal services, public safety, planning and inspections, social and health services and more. Directors and staff from 20 county departments helped lead sessions throughout the nine-week program. 

Graduates were honored with a reception preceding the board of commissioners meeting on Jan. 21. During the meeting, each participant was awarded a certificate and token of appreciation and was given an opportunity to share about their experiences during the class.  

Lori Ciquemani expressed her admiration for the dynamics of the government, especially “how our entire departments come together in unison to make this work.”

Echoing her appreciation for the complexity of the county’s operations, Melinda Daniel said, “To actually be in the department and see what it takes to run it, it’s a lot more than it looks.” 

Chiming in, Susan Sessler added, “Everybody seemed to be so dedicated to their jobs and what they were doing and they put themselves 100 percent in it. To see how much Rowan County does for this city…a lot of people think the city is doing what the county is doing.”

Alex Holshouser indicated that he also enjoyed learning about the responsibilities of the city and the county, and what each is required to provide.  

“Crazy enough, actually the most educational (part) for me was learning about the landfill and how it works,” said Dr. Corrie Connolly, who serves on the Rowan County Health Board. 

Gemale Black discovered a hidden gem in Mid-Carolina Regional Airport and the growth it is experiencing while Kaisha Brown appreciated the insights into the Department of Social Services and all that their staff do to serve the community.  

Kevin McClain, who recently earned a master’s in public administration, found the county manager’s role particularly enlightening to see it in a practical application after having learned about it in classes. 

“Seeing how much impact the county has on the community” was Carrington Willis’ favorite part of the class. “I think things like West End Plaza, just being able to see the progress and just how much opportunity and progress that’s had is impressive.”

Board Clerk Sarah Pack confirmed there are currently 138 vacancies to serve on 79 boards and commissions in Rowan County. Chairman Greg Edds congratulated the participants and encouraged them to apply to serve.

“We have a strong need for community input. You are the heartbeat for what we do in decision making. We are governed by you the people and so we would ask you to go on Rowan County’s website and apply. We would love to see your application come through,” Edds said. 

For further information about the Civic Leadership Program or ways that you can get involved in the county’s many boards and commissions, please contact the county manager’s office at 704-216-8180.