Rowan County Chamber of Commerce

The Rowan County Chamber of Commerce is now taking applications for the 2015-16 Leadership Rowan Class. For 23 years ,the Leadership Rowan program has ensured that the community’s leaders are knowledgeable about issues, well networked and passionate about the success of the area.

“We are extremely proud of the history and success of Leadership Rowan with over 500 graduates of the program,” said Dustin Wilson, the program’s steering committee chairman.

Leadership Rowan class members commit one day a month to exploring the community and discovering what makes it distinctive, including government, education, business, human needs and the arts. Throughout the nine-month program, participants go on exclusive tours and have hands-on experiences, all with area leaders who take on the community’s biggest challenges every day. Armed with new knowledge, connections and perspective, Leadership Rowan graduates are prepared to take their places as effective community leaders.

“Leadership Rowan is simply amazing. It allows you to get a close look at our community and to think about changes and improvement that could be made. The class bonds in the cohort with others from different races and ethnicities, personalities and jobs. You meet community leaders and make new friends. It is a wonderful opportunity,” said Deborah F. Johnson with Livingstone College.

“Leadership Rowan is an experience that will reshape the way you think about and experience life in Rowan County. Relationships are forged with other community leaders, and new ideas on how to improve the area are frequently discussed. Being a part of the Leadership Rowan class has been an enriching experience that has opened my eyes to Rowan County and all it has to offer,” said D.J. Barksdale with Fidelity Bank.

“I feel Leadership Rowan is one of the most successful professional development activities I’ve ever participated in and it has helped me to grow my skills. I would recommend this class to everyone,” said Ann Pressly with Trinity Oaks.

“Leadership Rowan is a great way to become more involved in our community. It helps you learn where and how things are done. It helps you make great connections with classmates and with our presenters during each class session,” said Gary Blabon, Novant Health Rowan Medical Center.

“Leadership Rowan provides individuals with the opportunity to step out of their comfort zone and connect with like-minded people. You learn a great deal about history and the make-up of the community,” said Glenwood B. Oats, Jr. with Cornerstone Church.

Though many people apply, only 30 are selected to build a class representative of the community. Applications are open through May 29. The class will begin in August and conclude in May 2016. Complete program and application details are available at www.rowanchamber.com. For additional information, contact the Rowan Chamber at 704-633-4221 or info@rowanchamber.com.