On Thursday evening December 11 at the new home of the Athens County Foundation, the Athens Armory, we welcomed representatives from the 2020 and 2021 cohorts of Leadership Athens County. Two cohorts from 2020 and one from 2021 were the heroes of pivoting. They went through our program through leadership transitions and a global pandemic. And through their experience, they are helping to lead Athens County with resilience and perseverance. 

As Kerry Pigman, Executive Director of the Athens County Foundation, said “You are the mission in motion. LAC grows informed citizens, nurtures connections, and strengthens the leadership ecosystem that keeps our region moving forward.”

Congratulations, officially, graduates!

Flagship Program

Over a 9-month course, LAC participants are challenged to question their understanding of Athens’ economic, political, social, and cultural landscape through discussions of current issues and conversations with community leaders. They learn about a complex array of topics including poverty, food insecurity, regional employment, economic development, housing, transportation, arts and culture, history, health care options, behavioral health, prisons, natural resources, and education – all while making important personal and professional connections. 

Many of our 400-plus alumni still live and work in Athens County and - importantly - they call on each other (and us) to help solve problems, brainstorm new ideas, and feel connected to their community. These relationships and shared experiences provide fuel for future partnerships and co-creations.

The goals and objectives for Leadership Athens County are to:

• Build relationships, connections, and community
• Help guide participants to a deeper understanding of their strengths and priorities for engagement
• Share Athens County’s assets and challenges, and encourage creative problem solving
• Share knowledge, resources, and challenges in the spirit of creating an informed, connected web of community leaders

By participating in LAC, you will:

• Build your personal and professional network with other leaders in Athens County 
• Know more about the assets, opportunities, and challenges in our community
• Learn about leadership: Your style and strengths, and about models and skills you can build
• Prepare for leadership opportunities in our community 
• Deepen your connection to Athens County