Leadership Fentress Gearing Up For Next Class Of Leaders

This year’s Leadership Fentress Class is set to mold new leaders for their communities and workplaces.

Fentress County Chamber of Commerce Director of Tourism Seth Vaughn said the class has been revamped after dissolving several years ago due to a lack of interest. He said this will be an opportunity for people who want to help facilitate progress in Fentress County and beyond.

“We really enjoy just seeing those who are interested in taking a lead,” Vaughn said. “And maybe it’s not becoming a community leader, maybe it’s just someone who wants to develop their leadership skills to better their workplace or just even better themselves.”

Vaughn said organization and communication are two of the most important qualities attendees will have a chance to develop. He said those interested can contact the Fentress County Chamber through February 29 to apply.

“For any organization or community to succeed, it’s going to take some individuals who are willing to step up to the plate and take a leadership role,” Vaughn said. “Some of those roles look different. For some, they might be interested in running for office, for some, they might be interested in running nonprofits.”

Vaughn said said since returning, the event has seen substantial growth. He said in 2021, the class had eight members; a fraction of last year’s turnout. He said the class will consist of lectures and guest speakers who will share their education and leadership journeys with the class.

“Some just want to learn people skills, or some want to get involved with the community and network with one another,” Vaughn said. “A lot of our local businesses sponsor this program and they send people who work for their organization to be a part of this, so it’s really a great networking opportunity as well.”

He said the class allows community leaders to meet and share ideas, creating a more responsible, cohesively-led Fentress County.