By Laura Deans

Contributing columnist

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The deadline to register for the 2015-2016 Adult Leadership Class is quickly approaching. With the program’s mission to provide a continuous, diverse supply of creative leaders to the county by developing their knowledge of the community and providing them with the opportunity for meaningful action. The eight-month program is designed to provide leaders broad exposure to issues and opportunities facing Sampson County, as well as meet our need for the active involvement of diverse, informed & responsible community leaders.

“The mission of Leadership Clinton-Sampson is to provide a continuous, diverse supply of creative leaders to the county by developing their knowledge of the community and by providing them with the opportunity for meaningful action. Often times, we immediately associate agriculture with Sampson County, and rightfully so, but we may lose sight of how economically diverse our county is – I draw attention to the actual mission statement and where it says “developing their knowledge of the community” to illustrate how instrumental the leadership program is at giving the participants a first-hand knowledge and experience of our economic diversity. I was born and raised in Sampson County, and still learned a great deal about the county, and my peers, through this program. The relationships and networking opportunities created through the leadership program are invaluable, and I feel Leadership Clinton-Sampson is a tremendous opportunity for anyone in the community who wishes to learn more about our county’s history and diversity,” said Martin Jackson of First Citizens Bank.

The testimonials continue from the over 180 Adult Leadership Alumni:

“Leadership Clinton-Sampson opened my eyes to all the diverse opportunities our county offers. I graduated with a better knowledge of the economic, cultural, and social issues our county both faces and embraces. It was a wonderful program and I highly recommend it to any leader in business wishing to learn more about our county,” — 2013-2014 Graduate.

“This was probably the most educational and most informative of all the days! The tour of Smithfield was something that I will never forget,” — 2011-2012 Graduate.

“This adventure educated and introduced to me to so many different aspects of Sampson County. I graduated from the program with better understanding of the overall economics and culture in Sampson County. I also formed new friendships with some of the county’s most respected colleagues. It was a wonderful opportunity and I highly recommend this program to any business leader that wants to learn more about Sampson County,” — 2010-2011 Graduate.

The Chamber is currently accepting applications for the next class of Leadership Clinton-Sampson which starts in September. The application deadline is August 21, so if you are interested, call the Chamber Office, 592.6177, or visit www.clintonsampsonchamber.org today for more information.

Laura Deans is executive director of the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce.