The 31st class of Leadership Clinton came together for a day full of both history and plans for the future at their September meeting.
The topic for the day was “Modeling the Way”, with an emphasis on exploring the county’s history and key influencers, and identifying strengths that can continue to be utilized in propelling our community forward.
The class of 14 community leaders from various business sectors in the county first heard an engaging presentation from Wilmington Public Library Director Nancy Ehas. They were briefed on the history of the library, how library services are funded and popular programs the library offers to those in and around the community.
Class members were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the library, with special insights on operations, staffing and how Friends of the Library aid in the continued success of our beloved library.
Next, the group traveled to J.W. Denver Williams Park, where recently retired Parks and Recreation Director Lori Williams presented on the topic of Community Stewardship. Williams educated the class on a variety of topics, from park programming to progression and growth of the various city parks in Wilmington to new projects and visions that will help sustain our parks and recreational systems for generations to come.
In keeping with the topic of Modeling the Way, a stop at Sugar Grove Cemetery was in order.
Lora Abernathy, Leadership Clinton Class of 2013, and Kathleen Norman, Leadership Clinton Class of 2014, led the class on a tribute walk, where recognition was paid to crucial county leaders from years past whose legacies live on still today.
Those recognized were known for putting community first and for taking calculated risks that propelled our community forward. Dr. Mary Boyd, her husband, Dr. Foster Jackson “Jack” Boyd, Charles Murphy, George M. Austin and Mary Mills were several former Clinton Countians who were highlighted as “Modeling the Way”.
The class then traveled to the offices of the Wilmington News Journal, where the conversation turned more futuristic.
Taylor Stuckert, Executive Director of the Clinton County Regional Planning Commission, and Tyler Williams shared their personal stories of finding a sense of community right here in Wilmington and their vision for continued economic growth and development.
Stuckert informed the class of current initiatives with the CCRPC and gave insights on recent studies completed in neighboring cities and counties and how these compare with current economic climate in Clinton County.
Our last speaker of the day was Gary Abernathy, Editor and Publisher of the (Hillsboro) Times Gazette, who introduced the role of serving on various governing boards and the duties they entail. He mentored the group and offered best practices to help guide them as they serve our community boards.
The leadership Clinton class meets monthly with local community and civic leaders with a mission to improve the quality of life in Clinton County through community engagement and enhanced knowledge of the County.
Kristi Fickert is Vice President of Marketing and Training, 30 Lines.
