January’s focus was leadership itself. This included not only local government, but we also had the opportunity to look personally at what leadership means to us. The day started with presentations by Judge Executive Harry Berry and Deputy Judge Executive Daniel London at the Hardin County Government Building. They went over the “big picture” of what it takes to govern the county and some of the primary challenges facing it. We toured the building and got to hear from Bryce Shumate again and others in Emergency Management and 9-1-1. One of the highlights of the day was the panel of city and county leaders who came together to answer our questions. Some of the leaders included: Fred Clem, Mayor Gregory, Mayor Duvall, Virgil Willoughby, Tanya Seabrooks, Roy Easter, and Pam Ogden. Their dialogue and insight gave a broad perspective on the many issues that are relevant to Hardin County. Representatives from local agencies such as the county school system, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Helping Hand of Hope, and others who work directly with at-risk children then joined us.
Our class has been leaning toward some effort to help local children for our class project – either through mentoring or helping support their education and development in some other way. The presenters helped to bring into focus some projects that could use our help.
Kenny Rambo joined the class to facilitate a discussion about the top three challenges facing the community based off interviews conducted by us with those we see as leaders in Hardin County. The last half of the day was led by small groups from within the leadership class. Each group came up with an activity, presentation or discussion that helped us reflect on leadership qualities in ourselves or in someone who has had an impact on our lives.
Sarah Fellows
Manager of Communications
Nolin Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation