News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
The Highlands Economic Partnership is looking for nominations for its 2021 Highlands Leaders Program.
The series of seminars is designed to develop current and future leaders to promote economic development in the region. Workforce Development And Education Director Kaitlin Sayler said nominations from Jackson, Overton, Putnam and White Counties are being accepted first.
“We will send out the link for nominations to previous class participants, members of our committees, investors in the Highlands Economic Partnership and Chambers of Commerce. But anyone truly that hears about the program and is interested can reach out.”
Sayler said local mayors, healthcare leaders and legislators are a few of the special speakers. Sayler said the program begins virtually in February with the hope to return to in-person later in the year.
“Each of our sessions cover the primary responsibilities of the Highlands,” Sayler said. “So, we do have a session on economic development, one on workforce development and education and one on community development and legislative advocacy.”
Sessions also cover tourism, healthcare and community engagement. Sayler said the program was first developed for just community leaders but has expanded.
“When the program first started, it was called Highlands Emerging Leaders,” Sayler said. “But they quickly realized that people that were already very engaged in the community wanted to take the class.”
Sayler said the ultimate goal is to get participants to contribute back to their communities. Sayler said other counties might be able to participate if all seats are not fall as February approaches. There is a $50 for the sessions.
