Cordele-Crisp Chamber of Commerce opens applications for 2024 leadership classes

CORDELE, Ga. – In the heart of Cordele, as the year of 2024 dawns upon us, there is a new class of leaders emerging, eager to embark on a transformative journey with the Cordele-Crisp Chamber of Commerce.

The planning committee of the Cordele-Crisp Chamber of Commerce leadership class of 2024 has officially opened applications for the upcoming year. This initiative is strategically designed to foster sustained engagement in leadership positions within the Cordele-Crisp county community.

“Some of the other goals that we will have for them, is to prepare the participants to be effective professionals by sharpening their leadership skills. We will challenge the participants to have greater roles in leadership, not just in the community; but in their church, at their business, club, or organization. Sometimes people feel intimidated. So, you learn to have those skills that help you with public speaking and with decision making. All those kind of skills that will help someone become a better leader,” said Monica Simmons, President, Cordele-Crisp Chamber of Commerce.

The program starts with a one and a half-day retreat in January primarily focused on effective interpersonal interaction. In addition, a series of monthly sessions are planned running from February to May, with each session taking place on the third Thursday of the respective month. These sessions will include lectures, panel discussions, and field trips, including one to Atlanta.

President of the Cordele-Crisp Chamber of Commerce, Monica Simmons, explores further aspects of the leadership program.

“So, we will kick off with a retreat and this is a time for the group to bond. We’ll meet up on a Thursday afternoon from like 4 to 8, and then we will come back the next morning at 8:30 and then meet until about 3:00 or 4:00. The leadership program is for us to train leaders to take the place of people that may be moving or retiring; because we always want to make sure that we have leadership to take us forward to the next steps and to make our community a better place,” said Simmons.

The Cordele-Crisp Chamber of Commerce welcome individuals hailing from unique backgrounds and enriched with diverse life experiences.

“We have an application; it is very easy to fill out. It just basically some background information, [stating] any leadership skills they have had in the past. The last day to apply is November 10th. We do have a limit of thirty in the class, and so we only do this class every three to four years. There is a cost, it is $350 for the whole sessions from beginning to end, and we will have a graduation at the end. But, if someone needs help with applying, we offer scholarships. We don’t want that to keep someone from applying. We do want to get in people that want to make a difference in our community,” said Simmons.

De’Andra Jacobs reporting.

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