For more than 45 years, Leadership Abilene has fostered and developed leaders in our community. These individuals come from diverse backgrounds and industries and act on the need and ambition to do good for the community.
I graduated from Leadership Abilene in 2013. I engaged in full-day sessions each month that focused on key community issues and topics. I learned firsthand from local, state, and national leaders the most critical issues facing our communities.
But what happens after your class graduates from Leadership Abilene? At the height of feeling empowered with knowledge and skills to drive meaningful impact?
Many served on the boards of nonprofit organizations, and more volunteered at fundraising and service events. All supported a positive future for our community.
And throughout time in the program, you develop friendships, too.
You have all engaged in this educational experience of Leadership Abilene, yet you may not reunite in the same place again.
And now that all has changed.
A task force was created to evaluate the idea of an alumni association. Surveys were distributed, data was reviewed, and the direction was set.
On behalf of the Abilene Chamber and the task force dedicated to this initiative, I am honored to share an invitation to all Leadership Abilene graduates to join the new Leadership Abilene Alumni Association.
We recognize members' devotion to remaining engaged in community initiatives, including maintaining connections made within their class year. Those core values shaped the association’s mission, which will focus on access, connection, education, and impact.
I am one graduate, but Leadership Abilene comprises a network of more than 800.
From the time we started Leadership Abilene to graduation to today, now more than ever, our combined network is equipped to build a legacy of a thriving community.
Imagine where we will be in the next 45 years—a long line of leaders who share a commitment to making an impact on future generations.
- Emerald Cassidy, Community Foundation of Abilene
The Leadership Abilene Alumni Association will hold its inaugural event on Thursday, August 29, from 5 to 8 p.m. More details can be found on the Chamber events calendar. For information, Contact Jennifer Kent at jennifer@abilenechamber.com.