The Latest News Releases

Leadership DeKalb Wins an Office Makeover from IKEA Atlanta

Friday, February 3, 2012

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

LEADERSHIP DEKALB NOW ACCEPTING CLASS OF 2013 APPLICATIONS

Thursday, January 26, 2012

ATLANTA, Ga., January 26, 2012 – DeKalb County community leaders and active citizens are invited to apply for Leadership DeKalb’s Class of 2013. Open House events are also being held on March 1 and March 6 for prospective members of the Class which will share information on the value and commitment of the program. 

The Leadership DeKalb Program is a 10-month community awareness and leadership development course for DeKalb County’s most active and influential leaders.

The Open House events will take place on Thursday, March 1, at DeKalb Medical Women’s Center at 2701 North Decatur Road, Decatur 30033; and, on Tuesday, March 6, at DeKalb Medical at Hillandale, 5900 Hillandale Drive, Lithonia 30058.

Parking and attendance is free for both events which will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a Networking Reception, followed by a brief program at 6 p.m. Reservations are requested and can be made by e-mailing info@leadershipdekalb.org or by phone at 404-373-2491.

“Leadership DeKalb’s annual Open House events are a great way for interested community advocates to network, meet our influential graduates and learn more about our community leadership program,” said Sara Fountain, Executive Director of Leadership DeKalb.

More than 50 individuals are accepted into the 10-month training program each year and educated on the issues facing DeKalb County. Upon completion, graduates may become members of a vast growing network of more than 1,000 diverse leaders representing a variety of industries including business, education, healthcare, social service agencies, government and more.

Candidates for the Class of 2013 must either live or work in DeKalb County. For more information about the program and to access an application, please visit the website at www.leadershipdekalb.org. The deadline for all applications is Monday, March 19.

Additionally, applications for the Youth Leadership DeKalb Class of 2013 are also available for high school sophomores and juniors interested in participating in our youth program. Visit our website for more information about our youth program and to access an application. All youth applications should be submitted through each student’s school counselor by Monday, Feb. 13.

About Leadership DeKalb

Founded in 1986, Leadership DeKalb, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is a community leadership development program that continues to build a network of ethnically and culturally diverse adult and youth leaders who are committed to addressing and resolving the issues that impact the quality of life in DeKalb County and the metro region. For more information, visit www.leadershipdekalb.org. Or, find us on Twitter @LeadersofDeKalb or Facebook at www.facebook.com/LeadershipDeKalb.

 ###

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

YOUTH LEADERSHIP DEKALB GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

ATLANTA, Ga., January 17, 2012 – More than 30 local sophomore and junior high school students and members of the Youth Leadership DeKalb Class of 2012 volunteered in a Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Day sponsored by the City of Decatur on Saturday, January 14. Students met at the Solarium Community Center and were then dispersed within the community to help clean and renovate senior citizens’ homes.

Working alongside Leadership DeKalb graduates and members, the youth helped repair the homes and yards of local community seniors by raking leaves, trimming bushes, removing invasive plants, and doing other work as deemed necessary under the supervision of adult volunteers.  

Diane Jackson-Chapman, Ph.D., program director of Youth Leadership DeKalb said this project teaches youth the importance of volunteering. “By getting students involved in this service project, it helped them to understand the importance of civic engagement and it fostered a stronger commitment in students to serve those with special needs,” said Dr.Jackson-Chapman.

Since 1988, Youth Leadership DeKalb has included community service as a component of its program to educate students on the importance of helping others in facilitating the growth of young leaders.   

More than 40 students participate in Youth Leadership DeKalb each year. Applications for the Class of 2013 are now available for high school sophomores and juniors. For more information, please visit www.leadershipdekalb.org.

About Leadership DeKalb

Founded in 1986, Leadership DeKalb, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is a community leadership development program that continues to build a network of ethnically and culturally diverse adult and youth leaders who are committed to addressing and resolving the issues that impact the quality of life in DeKalb County and the metro region. For more information, visit www.leadershipdekalb.org. Or, find us on Twitter @LeadersofDeKalb or Facebook at www.facebook.com/LeadershipDeKalb.

###

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Who is the Best Class Ever?

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

The Best Class Ever Award is a competition designed for Leadership DeKalb to recognize the Class that truly embodies what it means to be the "best class ever!" This includes - but is not limited to - graduates and members of Leadership DeKalb who are actively engaged with the organization and supportive of its mission.

Furthermore, the award is based on three areas of engagement, including:

1. Activity
2. Contributions (in-kind only)
3. Involvement

To learn more about this award, click here.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Leadership DeKalb Hosts Silver Anniversary Reunion

Monday, December 12, 2011

ATLANTA, Ga., December 12,
2011 – Leadership DeKalb recently celebrated 25 years of community leadership and positive impact at its Silver Anniversary Reunion at the Druid Hills Golf Club.

From the transformation of the DeKalb County juvenile justice system to the establishment of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program in the DeKalb County school system, graduates of Leadership DeKalb have helped to positively shape DeKalb County. And, at this event, more than 200 metro area leaders and dignitaries – including DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis ‘96, newly-elected City of Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson ‘11, DeKalb County
Solicitor-General Sherry Boston ‘12 and others –  gathered to commemorate these accomplishments and to “celebrate yesterday, today & tomorrow,” the theme of the Reunion event.

“Today, Leadership DeKalb is one of the premiere community leadership programs with 25 years of rich history and unyielding commitment to our community,” said Arnie Silverman ‘07, President of Silverman Construction Project Management and Chair of the Leadership DeKalb Board. “Tomorrow represents the opportunity for us to continue this commitment and to improve the lives of those living in our community now and in the future.”

Speakers at the event were graduates of the Leadership DeKalb and Youth Leadership DeKalb (YLD) programs and represented yesterday, today and tomorrow. Bill Crane ‘88, principal of CSI Crane, LLC and graduate of the Class of 1988, spoke on the founding and history of the organization; Dr. Karen Wheel-Carter ‘10, Chair of the Business and Social Science Department at Georgia Perimeter College and graduate of the Class of 2010, challenged fellow leaders to commit and make a difference in our community today; and Jennifer Thomas ‘11, senior at Druid Hills High School and graduate of the YLD Class of 2011, shared the impact the program had on her, as well as pledged to be a leader of tomorrow.

“We are better prepared to serve our communities tomorrow by being educated and civically engaged today,” said Ms. Thomas.

A silent auction was held at the event with proceeds to benefit the Youth Leadership DeKalb Program. The Program was founded by Leadership DeKalb members
as a way to mentor high school students and to foster their leadership skills and civic engagement.

Sponsors for the Silver Anniversary Reunion included Silverman Construction Program Management, Inc.;
Cornerstone Bank in Decatur, Lenz Marketing, Gas South and Georgia Power among others.

About Leadership DeKalb

Founded in 1986, Leadership DeKalb is celebrating its 25^th year of leadership training, community contributions and more than 1,000 graduates who are socially conscious community leaders. As a 501(c)3 non-profit
organization, Leadership DeKalb continues to build a network of ethnically and culturally diverse adult and youth leaders who are committed to addressing and
resolving the issues that impact the quality of life in DeKalb County and the metro region. For more information, visit www.leadershipdekalb.org. Or, find us on Twitter @LeadersofDeKalb or Facebook at www.facebook.com/LeadershipDeKalb.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Renew your Membership Today!

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Renew your membership before Tuesday, Nov. 15, and be entered into a drawing to WIN TWO FREE AIR-TRAN AIRWAY TICKETS (a $1,000 value) for travel anywhere in the continental U.S.*

*Tickets for use by March 31, 2012. AirTran has merged with Southwest Airlines. 

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Leadership DeKalb Celebrates Its Silver Anniversary

Monday, September 26, 2011

Nearly 150 metro area leaders attended Leadership DeKalb’s 25^th Anniversary Annual Meeting at Agnes Scott College on Thursday, September 22. The event honored several distinguished leaders for their altruistic efforts in the community, as well as recognized new and retiring members of the Leadership DeKalb Board of Directors.

"Tonight we are here to celebrate leaders and leadership skills,” stated Arnie Silverman ‘07, President of Silverman Construction Project Management and newly elected Chair of the Board. “We are a dedicated class of local leaders who believe in this county and seek to make it even better; not for our own purposes, but for the common good of the community.”

Award recipients included Walt Bryde ’97, President of Walton C. Bryde & Associates, who received the 2011 Distinguished Leader Award

from the national Association of Leadership Professionals for his community involvement and work with refugee resettlement. DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis ’96 was honored with the 2011 Sue Ellen Owens Leadership Award for his work to unite the community through OneDeKalb,
also known as the Office of Neighborhood Empowerment. Lastly, Garry McGiboney, Ph.D. ’06, Associate Superintendent for Policy, External Affairs and Charters with the Georgia Department of Education, was awarded the 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award for his efforts of creating community collaborations and positive change in DeKalb County Schools.

Eric Greenwood ’06, Immediate Past Chair of the Board, passed the gavel to Arnie Silverman ’07, as the new Chair-Elect for 2011-2012.  And, the four newly elected Board members are John Funny ’10, President/CEO of Grice Consulting Group; Charles Huddleston ’11, Shareholder, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz; Lisa

Loften ’11, Chief Financial Officer of Halpern Enterprises, Inc.; and, Tom Woodward ’11, Vice President of Heery International, Inc. Retiring Board members, including Delores Crowell ‘03, Regional Manager for AT&T, and Maria Mullins ’08, of the International Economic Development Council, were honored and thanked.

Closing the event, Silverman highlighted the importance of staying connected and the power of the connection through Leadership DeKalb’s 25-year history and its more than 1,000 graduates. “Each one of us that has been through this program holds one common value and belief,” he stated. “It’s the value of community and the belief that each one of us not only has the power to make a positive difference, but the obligation – as influential leaders - to do so.”

Sponsors for the Annual Meeting included Silverman Construction Program Management, Inc., Cornerstone Bank in Decatur and Lenz Marketing.

Legacy Sponsors for Leadership DeKalb include DeKalb Medical and AGL Resources.

Leadership DeKalb will continue its celebration at the 25^th Anniversary Class Reunion on December 1.

About Leadership DeKalb

Founded in 1986, Leadership DeKalb is celebrating its 25^th year of leadership training, community contributions and more than 1,000 graduates who are socially conscious community leaders. As a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, Leadership DeKalb continues to build a network of ethnically and culturally diverse adult and youth leaders who are committed to addressing and resolving the issues that impact the quality of life in Georgia’s DeKalb County. For more information, visit www.leadershipdekalb.org. Or, find us on Twitter @LeadersofDeKalb or Facebook at www.facebook.com/LeadershipDeKalb.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

LEADERSHIP DEKALB WELCOMES NEW COMMUNITY LEADERS TO THE CLASS OF 2012

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

ATLANTA, Ga., September 20, 2011 – Leadership DeKalb has selected 52 members for the Class of 2012 to complete a 10-month training program, educating the leaders about issues facing the community.

With representatives from business, education, healthcare, social service agencies and government, including established and emerging leaders, this class will join more than 1,000 graduates of the program over its 25-year history.

“Every year, we strive to unite a diverse group of leaders from different walks of life in DeKalb County who exhibit a desire for influential leadership and dedication for a positive change in the community,” said Sara Fountain, Executive Director. “Nearly half of the class members are from governmental agencies, social service entities or educational organizations which sets this program apart from most community leadership programs around the country.”

During the 10-month training program, the class will be informed on issues in the community such as history, diversity, justice, government, education, economic development & transportation, and health.

The new members selected for Class of 2012 include:

Al Adams, President, Adams Transfer & Storage Company, Inc.;

Latanza Adjei, Assistant to the Executive Vice President, Georgia Power;

Barry Amos, City Manager, City of Stone Mountain;

April Atkins, Community Affairs Specialist, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC);

Joe Basista, Director, Department of Watershed Management, DeKalb County;

Morcease Beasley, Interim Deputy Superintendent for Teaching & Learning, DeKalb County School System;

Jeremy Berry, Attorney, McKenna, Long, & Aldridge, LLP;

Sherry Boston, DeKalb County Solicitor – General, DeKalb County Solicitor – General’s Office;

Sean Brumfield, Executive Director, Atlanta Center for Civic Engagement & Service Learning, Georgia Perimeter College;

Ginny Byrd Potter, State Director, Research Associates;

Susan Carini, Executive Director, Emory Creative Group, Emory University;

Matt Coleman, SVP, Director of Client Services, The Titan Agency;

Jean Douglas, Executive Director, Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence;

Sally Eggleston, Chief Marketing Officer, Senior Connections;

Patti Garrett, Commissioner, City of Decatur;

Claudette Grant-Joseph, Workforce & Career Development Officer, Centers for Disease Control;

Nina Hall, Special Assistant to the CEO, DeKalb County;

Milano Harden, President & Founder, The Genius Group, Inc.;

Susan Harris, VP, Administrator, DeKalb Medical;

Stacey Hydrick, State Court Judge, DeKalb County State Court;

Vaughn Irons, Chief Executive Officer, APD Solutions;

Paul Jacxsens, Large Line of Business Director, Kaiser Permanente;

Laura Keyes, Senior Principal Program Specialist, Atlanta Regional Commission;

Adriene Kinnaird, Executive Director, Oncology & Cardiac Services and the Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, Grady Memorial Hospital;

Randall Kirsch, Principal, Jackson Spalding;

Susan Laird, Team Lead, Business & Community Relations/Cooperative Agreements, Centers for Disease Control;

Jason Lary, Marketing & Promotions Manager, Jason Lary Management;

Katherine Mason, Director of Communications, Leadership DeKalb;

Susan McCauley, Principal, DeKalb School of Arts, DeKalb County School System;

Claire Miller, Assistant Director, Child & Youth Services, City of Decatur;

Paedia Mixon, Executive Director, Refugee Resettlement & Immigration Services of Atlanta;  

Emory Morsberger, President, Stone Mountain CID;

Robert Naddra, Local News Editor, The Champion Newspaper;

Matt Nagel, Georgia Tech Spokesperson, Georgia Institute of Technology;

Lisa Newbern, Chief, Public Affairs, Emory University, Yerkes National Primate Research; Center; Andy Pascual, Assistant District Attorney, DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office;

Bill Piercy, Partner/Attorney, Berman, Fink, Van Horn P.C.;

Michelle Potter, Community Relations Manager, DeKalb County Community Service Board;

Brian Pruitt, Executive Director, SALA Learning & Development Centers, Inc.;

Carolyn Rehling, Vice President, Business, Southeast Region, Sprint Nextel;  

Jonathan Robinson, Senior Financial Associate, Oppenheimer & Co.;

Brian Shadix, Director of Career Services, DeVry University;

Patty Shewmaker, Partner, Lynch & Shewmaker, LLC;

Drew Slone, Associate, Smith, Gambrell & Russell;  

Lena Stevens, Resource Conservation Coordinator, City of Decatur;

Richard Swindle, SVP – Atlanta, Mercer University;

Hien Ta, Program Manager, Manufacturing Resources International;

Jamie Tiernan, Controller, Gas South;

Duncan Van Pelt, Consultant, Commercial & International Trade Compliance;

Denise Warner, Senior Law Clerk, Staff Attorney, DeKalb County Superior Court;

Marie Watson, President – Attorney, Marie Y. Watson & Associates, P.C.;

Caroline Wood, Chief of Staff, City Schools of Decatur.

About Leadership DeKalb

Founded in 1986, Leadership DeKalb is celebrating its 25^th year of leadership training, community connectivity and development. As a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, Leadership DeKalb continues to build a network of ethnically and culturally diverse adult and youth leaders who are committed to addressing and resolving the issues that impact the quality of life in Georgia’s DeKalb County. For more information, visit www.leadershipdekalb.org. Or, find us on Twitter @LeadersofDeKalb or Facebook at www.facebook.com/LeadershipDeKalb.

###

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Leadership DeKalb Graduates 52 New Community Leaders

Thursday, June 23, 2011

ATLANTA, Ga., June 23, 2011 – Fifty-two members of the Leadership DeKalb Class of 2011 completed a 10-month training program designed to educate DeKalb County leaders on the issues facing the region.

Comprised of an influential group of ethnically and culturally diverse leaders in DeKalb County, the Leadership DeKalb Class of 2011 included representatives from business, healthcare, education, social service agencies and government including the DeKalb County Police Chief and the City of Decatur Fire Chief.

The wide range of professionals represented included:

John Anderson, Administrative Operations Manager, DeKalb County Parks and Recreation;

Errin Baugh, Watershed Manager, City of Atlanta;

Mike Bean, Partner, Key Planning;

Shoshana Ben-Yoar, President, GrantScribes;

Amin Bhatia, Director of Corporate Services, DeKalb Medical;

Darrell Black, Chief Information Officer, DeKalb County;

Dave Butler, Greenspace Environment Manager, DeKalb County;

Clarence Callaway, Principal, DeKalb County School System;

JD Clockadale, Project Manager, RaceTrac Petroleum, Inc.;

Tom Crawford, Vice President of Human Resources, DeKalb Medical;

Pat Desamours, Financial Advisor, Edward Jones Investments;

Toni Dixon, Fire Chief, City of Decatur;

John Dutko, Vice President of SBA Lending, Cornerstone Bank;

Angela Evans-Afflick, Senior Assistant County Attorney, DeKalb County Law Department;

David Fisher, Facilities Management Director, DeKalb County;

Theodros Hailegiorgis, Agency Manager/Owner, TIPS. Inc./Allstate Insurance Agency;

Wendy Ho, Team Lead of Sales & Marketing, SouthStar Energy Services;

Luke Howe, Assistant to the Mayor, City of Doraville;

Charles Huddleston, Shareholder, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz;

Tres Indermark, Owner/President, Howard Indermark, P.C. Attorney At Law;

Deborah Jackson, CEO/Owner, DAJ Associates LLC;

Janea Johnson, Policy Writer, Kaplan Higher Education;

Patrece Keeter, Supervising Engineer, DeKalb County Public Works Transportation Division;

Andrea King, Assistant Principal, Kittredge Magnet School for High Achievers;

Milton Kirby, President, Allied Logistics, Inc.;

Annette Lane, Deputy Chief Criminal Investigation Division, DeKalb County Police Services;

LaTasha Lewis, CEO, Tadda's Fitness Camp;

Lisa Loften, Chief Financial Officer, Halpern Enterprises, Inc.;

Dax Lopez, State Court Judge, State Court of DeKalb County;

Cornell McBride, President, McBride Research Laboratories;

Julie McKay, Conference Center Manager, DeKalb Technical College;

Peter Michelson, CEO, Renewal Design Build;

Michele NeSmith, Research and Policy Development Director, Association County Commissioners of GA;

Bill O’Brien, Police Chief, DeKalb County Police;

Darius Pattillo, Assistant District Attorney, DeKalb County District Attorney's Office;

Russ Pennington, Water Business Group Manager, HDR;

Mindy Pillow, Associate, Kilpatrick Stockton LLP;

Angela Pringle, Area Assistant Superintendent for Region 2, DeKalb County School System;

Bernita Reese, Recreation Program Manager, DeKalb County Government;

Rodney Russell, Area Sales Executive, Georgia Power Company;

Sue Schroeder, Artistic Director, Several Dancers Core;

Garrick Scott, President, National Federation of the Blind of Georgia;

Spencer Smith, Attorney, Hall, Booth, Smith & Slover;

Tim Sobon, HR Recruiting and Retention Manager, Moore Stephens Tiller LLC;

Lorine Spencer, Health Policy Analyst, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention;

Dia Taylor, Senior Advisor, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention;

Rolanda Thomas, Senior Project Manager, DeKalb County Office of Economic Development;

Amanda Thompson, Planning Director, City of Decatur;

Jyotnsa Vanapalli, Assistant Director of Programs, Emory University Office of Equal Opportunity Programs;

Amber Weaver, Director of Keep DeKalb Beautiful, DeKalb County;

Tom Woodward, Vice President, Heery International, Inc.;

Nancy Wright, Branch Operations Coordinator, DeKalb County Public Library

Members of the Class were educated specifically on DeKalb County issues that focused on Diversity, Education, Economic Development & Transportation, Government, Health, History and Justice. And, when asked to reflect on the program, Shoshana Ben-Yoar, President of GrantScribes and graduate of Leadership DeKalb 2011 stated, “I have a much greater understanding of DeKalb: the good, the bad and the ugly; but, that’s where community action starts!”

In fact, keynote speaker Jon Abercrombie, Director of Common Focus, encouraged the graduates to bring about positive change and to truly become mobile leaders in their community. He also spoke on overcoming resistance to change by bringing people together to find a common ground for action.

Graduates of the Leadership DeKalb Class of 2011 and new members of the organization will put their training into action through the Leadership DeKalb Community Pledge Program, specifically uniting members with common community interests and mobilizing them for a community cause.

About Leadership DeKalb

Founded in 1986, Leadership DeKalb is celebrating its 25^th year of leadership training, community connectivity and development. A 501(c)3 non-profit organization which continues to build a network of ethnically and culturally diverse adult and youth leaders who are committed to addressing and resolving the issues that impact quality of life in Georgia’s DeKalb County. For more information, visit www.leadershipdekalb.org.

###

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Leadership DeKalb Graduates 37 Students from Youth Program

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

ATLANTA, Ga., May 10, 2011 – Thirty-seven members of the Youth Leadership DeKalb (YLD) Class of 2011 completed an intensive leadership training program and participated in graduation ceremonies at Georgia Perimeter College on May 2. Community sponsors for the graduation event included Georgia Power, DeKalb Police Department and the Organization of DeKalb Educators.

The 37 students representing 16 area public and private high schools were educated on DeKalb County issues and received youth leadership training over the course of the 10-month Program, including days focused on Criminal Justice, Health, Quality of Life, Business, Government, Banking & Finance and Civic Engagement.

“With Leadership DeKalb, I’ve learned so much and gained a lot of civic awareness, self-awareness and overall awareness about my community,” said Jennifer Thomas, graduate of YLD 2011 and junior at Druid Hills High School. Thomas will also serve as an intern for next year’s Leadership DeKalb 2011-2012 program. “I’ve learned about what we’re really doing to change DeKalb County and make it better. This is a great program!”

Dr. Anthony S. Tricoli, President of Georgia Perimeter College (GPC), delivered the keynote address that encouraged the students to get involved in civic projects and to empower other youth to become leaders in their communities. Dr. Tricoli also highlighted the prominence of GPC as the third largest institution in the University System of Georgia, as well as its founding of the Atlanta Center for Civic Engagement & Service Learning.

Graduates of the Youth Leadership DeKalb Class of 2011 include:

City of Atlanta -

• Cross Keys High School:
  
  
  
  • Chandra Dickey
  
  


• Druid Hills High School:
  
  
  
  • Anna Dowling, Kathleen Knowles, Nuri Rashied, Jordan Swanson, Jennifer Thomas*
  
  


• Marist School:
  
  
  
  • Emma BeMiller, Ian Kirchner*, Samuel McKinstry, Andrew Roberts, Marco Roca*, Madeleine Ward*
  
  


• St. Piux X Catholic High School:
  
  
  
  • Tim Becker, Berkeley Moore
  
  

City of Clarkston -

• Clarkston High School:
  
  
  
  • Sandy Nguyen*, Levi Tran*
  
  

Greater Decatur -

• Columbia High School:
  
  
  
  • Rachel Fletcher, Trevor Lindsay, Zahra Mohammed
  
  


• Southwest DeKalb High School:
  
  
  
  • Kenton Edwards*, Katie Peagler, Brittany Williams*
  
  

City of Dunwoody -

• Dunwoody High School:
  
  
  
  • Wesley Dixon
  
  

City of Ellenwood -

• Cedar Grove High:
  
  
  
  • Dexter Alsobrook, Jr.
  
  

City of Lithonia -

• Arabia Mountain High School:
  
  
  
  • Drexal Alexander, Brianne Chriss, Megan McCall, Morgan McCall, Karri Thomas
  
  


• Lithonia High School:
  
  
  
  • Joshua Grosh*, Darius Johnson
  
  


• Martin Luther King, Jr. High School:
  
  
  
  • Toronto Thomas, Alicia Thornton
  
  


• Miller Grove High School:
  
  
  
  • Candace Moon
  
  

City of Stone Mountain -

• DeKalb Early College Academy:
  
  
  
  • Kiera Williams
  
  


• Redan High School:
  
  
  
  • Tshim Tshimanga
  
  

City of Tucker -

• Tucker High School:
  
  
  
  • JeVonda Wright*
  
  

Twenty years ago, graduate of the Leadership DeKalb adult community leadership program created the Youth Leadership DeKalb Program as a way to mentor high school students and to foster their leadership skills and civic engagement. Since that time, more than 400 high school students have completed the program, enchancing their personal leadership skills and community awareness.

The Youth Leadership DeKalb Program also offers an additional level of leadership development through the YLD Internship Program. As part of the Program, graduates (*) of the current class assist with the planning and coordination of the following year's YLD Program, as well as work together on a community service project.

About Leadership DeKalb

Founded in 1986, Leadership DeKalb is celebrating its 25th year of leadership training, community connectivity and development. A 501 (c)3 non-profit organization which continues to build a network of ethnically and culturally diverse adult and youth leaders who are committed to addressing and resolving the issues that impact quality of life in Georgia's DeKalb County. Youth Leadership DeKalb was established in 1991. For more information, visit www.leadershipdekalb.org.

###

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

ALSTON, RALSTON ELECTED LD BOARD OFFICERS

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

The Leadership DeKalb Board of Directors has elected two new officers to replace outgoing members who resigned due to recent changes in their careers.

Ron Alston ’09, First Vice President of SunTrust Bank, was elected Treasurer to replace outgoing board member Richard Stogner, who recently was appointed Chief Operating Officer for DeKalb County. Alston has served on the board for two years.

Julie Ralston ’91, Communications Director for the Atlanta Regional Commission, was elected Secretary to replace outgoing board member Gwen Keyes Fleming ’99, who was recently appointed Regional Administrator of the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency. Ralston has served on the board for three years.

“It is very fortunate for us that Ron and Julie were in place and agreed to assume these additional responsibilities,” says Eric Greenwood ’06, Board Chair and Region Manager of Atlanta Gas Light. “They both have experience with Leadership DeKalb and the talent and commitment that are required for these posts, and we are grateful for their willingness to serve in this capacity. At the same time, we greatly appreciate the services rendered by Gwen and Richard, and we will miss their participation.”

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Applications Being Accepted for Class of 2012

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Completed Applications Due March 16,

Final Open House Set for March 3 

Leadership DeKalb is now accepting applications for the Class of 2012. Graduates should submit nominations as soon as possible so that nominees have time to receive, complete and submit their applications by March 16. Individuals interested in being considered for the program are invited to attend the final of three Open Houses for prospective members on Thursday, March 3 at the Chamblee Civic Center, 3540 Broad Street, Chamblee Georgia 30341.

“We encourage members to work with nominees so that completed applications are in our offices by March 16,” says Sara Fountain ‘92, Executive Director. “While our official nomination deadline is February 19, we are able to make exceptions if we are made aware of the extenuating circumstances. However, our volunteer Selection Committee members need to have all completed applications before them once they begin the review and selection of candidates for the Class of 2012. All applicable forms are available on the website.”

"Each year, approximately 50 established and emerging leaders are accepted from the many applications we receive for our intensive ten-month training program," says Atlanta Gas Light Region Manager Eric Greenwood ‘06, Chair of the Leadership DeKalb Board of Directors. "Our Open Houses allow individuals interested in Leadership DeKalb an opportunity to meet distinguished graduates, ask questions about the program and learn about eligibility requirements." A limited number of scholarships ($450) are available.

At the Chamblee Open House, guests can enjoy a Networking Reception at 5:30 p.m. and an informative program featuring panelists from previous classes from 6 - 7 p.m. Attorney La Tisha Dear ‘06 will moderate a panel of distinguished graduates. Class membership is only the first step, according to Fountain. She says the experience leads to becoming part of Leadership DeKalb's vast network of alumni members, which is designed to further develop leadership skills, provide a broader understanding of community issues and establish connections with other leaders.

All graduates are invited to attend the Open House hosted by the City of Chamblee. Parking is free and refreshments will be served. Reservations can be made by e-mailing info@leadershipdekalb.org or by phone at 404-373-2491.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Leadership DeKalb Announces Dates For Prospective Member Open Houses

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Leadership DeKalb will host Open Houses in February and March for active and influential leaders who are interested in community awareness leadership training. Upon successful completion of the 10-month training program, graduates may become active members of Leadership DeKalb, a non-partisan not-for-profit organization that has fostered networking and connections among its over 950 distinguished graduates to positively impact DeKalb County for 25 years.

Open Houses will be held on February 3 at DeKalb Medical Women’s Center, 2701 North Decatur Road, Decatur, GA 30033; and on February 10 at DeKalb Medical at Hillandale, 2801 DeKalb Medical Parkway, Lithonia, GA 30058; and on Thursday, March 3 at the Chamblee Civic Center, 3540 Broad Street, Chamblee Georgia 30341.

Guests are invited to attend a Networking Reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by a program at 6 p.m. when attorney LaTisha Dear, a graduate of the Class of 2006, will moderate a panel of other Leadership DeKalb graduates. Parking is free at all locations and light refreshments will be served. There is no charge to attend the Open House events.

“At our Open Houses, individuals interested in Leadership DeKalb can meet distinguished graduates, ask questions about the program and learn about eligibility requirements,” says Sara Fountain, Executive Director. “Each year, approximately 50 established and emerging leaders are accepted from the many applications we receive.” Candidates must live or work in DeKalb County.

In 2011, Leadership DeKalb is celebrating its 25th year of leadership training, community connectivity and development of social capital for individuals and organizations committed to improvement of the quality of life in DeKalb County. Graduates include CEOs of top public and private companies, government officials, educators, judges, entrepreneurs, community volunteers and nonprofit organization leaders.

Reservations are requested. Reply by e-mail to info@leadershipdekalb.org or by phone at 404-373-2491. For more information on the Leadership DeKalb program, visit www.leadershipdekalb.org.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Class of 2010 Raises Funds to Host YLD Closing Session

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Join Leadership DeKalb for Diversity Conversation

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Join Leadership DeKalb for “A Class Divided” Documentary and Conversation on Diversity and Inclusion

Cornerstone Bank, Community Room, 125 Clairemont Avenue , Decatur 30030

Tuesday, November 16, 2010   7 - 9 p.m. – Free  - Guests Welcome! 

In 1968, innovative Ohio third-grade teacher, Jane Elliott, conducted a controversial exercise to provide her class with a better understanding of what discrimination means. On Tuesday, November 16, Leadership DeKalb will show the classic, PBS Frontline documentary, “A Class Divided,” based on Ms. Elliott’s experiment. The free program will be held in the Community Room at Cornerstone Bank, 125 Clairemont Avenue , Decatur from 7 – 9 p.m. The one-hour show raises deep emotions and will be followed by a facilitated discussion on diversity and inclusion, led by Diversity Trainer and Leadership DeKalb graduate Pollie Massey Battle ’08.   

Following the assassination of Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., Ms. Elliott devised an exercise to help her students better understand racism and discrimination in America . She divided her class into two groups: blue-eyed and brown-eyed people. One day, the blue-eyed group was treated superior and given extra privileges like second helpings at lunch, access to the new jungle gym and five minutes extra at recess. She praised the blue-eyed group for being hard-working and intelligent while she disparaged the brown-eyed group.

The next day, the treatment of the groups was reversed. Needless to say, the complete experiment changed the lives of all involved. Because Elliott believed so strongly in the value of the exercise, she continued it every year until 1984 when she quit teaching. Elliott says, “to be an educator, and not merely a teacher, one must lead people out of ignorance.”  

Join us for this meaningful look at diversity and inclusion! Popcorn and drinks will be served. Please let us know if you are coming by e-mailing  bethjansa@leadershipdekalb.org.  Feel free to bring a guest! 

The program is free, but space is limited. Parking is available in the deck directly behind the bank. The Community Room entrance is at the back of the bank building facing the parking deck.

Many thanks to Charles Yorke '07, CEO, Cornerstone Bank for hosting this Conversation on Diversity and Inclusion! 

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Annual Meeting Highlights

Thursday, October 21, 2010

ERIC GREENWOOD NAMED CHAIR OF LD BOARD,
NEW OFFICERS AND BOARD MEMBERS ELECTED,
SIX BOARD MEMBERS RETIRE 

Eric Greenwood ‘06, Region Manager of AGL Resources, was elected Chair of the Leadership DeKalb Board of Directors at the Annual Meeting on September 14 at Agnes Scott College. Other elected officers include  Chair-Elect Arnie Silverman ‘07, Principal of Silverman Construction Program Management; Secretary Gwen Keyes Fleming ‘99, Regional Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; and Treasurer Richard Stogner, Chief Operating Officer of DeKalb County Government.   Maria Mullins ‘08, former Director of Economic Development for DeKalb County, is Immediate Past Chair.

New board members are Steve Apolinsky ‘10, Owner of Apolinsky & Associates, LLC; Tony DelCampo ‘04, Judge of DeKalb County State Court; Mary Leight ‘02, President of Leightworks; and Ron Sauder, Vice President for Communications & Marketing at Emory University.

Returning board members are Ron Alston, First Vice President of SunTrust Bank; Angela Battle, Manager of Bulk System Planning for Georgia Transmission Corporation; Charlotte Combre, Partner with McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP; Delores Crowell, Regional Manager of AT&T; Sadie Dennard, Assistant to the Regional Manager of AT&T; Leigh Minter, Executive Director of the DeKalb Medical Foundation; Robert Moseley, Associate Superintendent of the DeKalb County School System; Susan Neugent, President & CEO of Fernbank Museum of Natural History; Julie Ralston, Communications Director of the Atlanta Regional Commission; Bo Spalding, Principal with Jackson Spalding, Inc.; Rocio Woody, President of The Road to Recovery, Inc.; and, Charles Yorke, President of Cornerstone Bank.  Sara A. Fountain is Executive Director.

Retiring board members include Thurbert Baker ’88, Attorney General, State of Georgia; Walt Bryde ’97, President, Walton C. Bryde & Associates; Bettye Davis ’06, Office of the CEO, DeKalb County; Ken Jones ’00, Partner, Hall Booth, Smith & Slover; Chris Morris ’00, Director, DeKalb County Office of Community Development; Betty Willis ’97, Senior Associate Vice President, Office of Governmental & Community Affairs, Emory University.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

2010 Annual Meeting Set for September 14th

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

The Leadership DeKalb Annual Meeting will be held Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at Agnes Scott College, beginning with a networking reception at 5:30 p.m. and followed by a brief business meeting at 6:45 p.m. New officers and board members will be elected and installed. Awards presentations will include the 2010 Distinguished Alumni Award and the 2010 Sue Ellen Owens Award for community service. The Class of 2011 will be introduced. Other special recognitions are planned.

For more details and online advance reservations for this important annual event, check out our Upcoming Events section.

For more details and online advance reservations for this important annual event, check out our Upcoming Events section.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Atlanta Dream August 13 Game to Benefit Youth Leadership DeKalb

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Atlanta's phenomenal women's professional basketball team, the Atlanta Dream, will host a special benefit for Leadership DeKalb members and friends at its Friday, August 13 game with New York Liberty at Philips Arena. A portion of ticket sales for that evening will benefit Youth Leadership DeKalb.

Two Lower Level ticket options are available: One Lower Level Ticket @ $25 each ($10 donated to Youth Leadership DeKalb) or One Lower Level Ticket @ $19 each ($7 donated to Youth Leadership DeKalb).

Leadership DeKalb ticket buyers will be seated together in the Lower Level and the entire group will have an opportunity to participate in the Atlanta Dream's special "fan experiences" during the game, which begins at 7 p.m.

To receive a ticket form, e-mail bethjansa@leadershipdekalb.org or call 404-373-2491.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

World Party 2010 - A Celebration of Diversity: Reconnects Classes, Raises Funds for YLD

Monday, July 12, 2010

World Party 2010 was an event for Leadership DeKalb graduates that raised the bar for future reunions - as promised. More than 150 community leaders and guests came out to re-connect on May 15 at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center with former classmates, network with other classes, and enjoy the elaborate celebration of DeKalb County's reputation as an international community.

It was tough deciding which Leadership DeKalb class was actually the "best class ever." Everybody just looked so good! Many wore fashions that depicted their diverse cultural and ethnic heritages. More than $11,000 was raised for Youth Leadership DeKalb from ticket sales. The Class of 2007 and Class of 2009 both claim honors for selling the most tickets.

World Party guests enjoyed entertaining displays of Brazilian martial arts and dance.

Sponsors for the event were AT&T; The Champion Newspaper; the City of Decatur; CrossRoads News; DeKalb County Community Development; Hall Booth Smith & Slover, P.C.; H Mart; Jason Lary Management; O'Leary Partners, Inc.; Organization of DeKalb Educators; Silverman Construction Program Management; and SunTrust Bank.

The evening was fueled by a lavish buffet of specialty foods from around the world. An obviously well-travelled party committee provided table décor that featured artifacts from every continent.

On arrival, guests were greeted by a troupe of Chinese yo-yo artists and African drummers who set the mood for a night of old-fashioned boogey woogey and continuous line dances that were led, in most instances, by committee chair John Hewitt '05. Who knew?

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Class of 2010 Ends Year With Call to Action By CEO

Friday, July 9, 2010

DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis '96 challenged the Class of 2010 to leverage their new affiliation with the county's most influential network of leaders by staying connected and active with Leadership DeKalb.

In remarks at the Closing Retreat, which took place June 10-11 at Stone Mountain Park, Ellis spoke candidly about his class experiences and the importance that leaders play in helping the administration understand and resolve issues that affect the community.

"By some economic indicators, the Great Recession is over," Ellis said. "But according to those on the ground, we will live with the impact of this recession for much of the rest of this decade. Organizations are still struggling to find footing. Individuals are still searching for employment, and governments are still seeking ways to serve citizens, business owners, and other stakeholders without having an adverse affect on the quality of life in their communities.

"In DeKalb, we are fortunate to have Leadership DeKalb, which since 1986, has built a committed group of leaders who are well informed about our county and the issues that we face as a region. This group of dedicated alumni, which you join today, is the foundation on which our brighter future depends. Each of you has emerged as a clear leader in your organization - poised to join a cohesive network of leaders committed to working together for the betterment of our community."

The class was also inspired by presentations from leadership professionals Bob Littell, consultant, author and creator of the well-known practice of "netweaving," and Pollie Massey Battle '08, respected motivational speaker and diversity facilitator.

Two members of the 2010 graduating class, Gabby Mays of Tucker High School and Gillen Heisler of DeKalb School of the Arts, were guests for the closing luncheon to share their perspectives on lessons they learned during the past year.

A highlight of the retreat was the annual skit competition that pitted study groups against each other to demonstrate, in an entertaining and informative presentation, the impact of the Leadership DeKalb experience. The traditionally humorous contest was won by a number of mini-skits written by member Dorothy Harris '10 for her study group. The side-splitting performances featured class members depicting an exaggerated view of recent occurrences throughout the county that made news headlines. Dr. Wendolyn Bouie '09, whose study group won last year, presented the Class Trophy which stays with the winning group until the next Closing Retreat.

As a final exercise, the Class of 2010 selected Doreen Carter '10, Mia Pressley '10, Jana Johnson '10, Karen Wheel-Carter '10 and Brenita McCord '10 as Class Liaisons who will represent graduates and serve as a point of contact for continued networking and connectivity.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Leadership DeKalb Launches Program to Promote Sustainability

Sunday, June 6, 2010

From Macy’s to Wal-Mart, major corporations are looking at ways to reduce energy use and adopting sustainable policies on their uses of products and waste generation. They are making efforts to reduce their impact on the environment for a more sustainable future. We at Leadership DeKalb are also turning over a new leaf by focusing on sustainability as a concept for leadership.

With its theme of ‘The Triple Bottom Line,’ the Class of 2008 has raised the bar in terms of commitment to a sustainable future for the metro region. Andy Cummings, DeKalb County Drug Court Coordinator (pictured), was moved to act during the first program day. He joined Leadership DeKalb staff and sustainability consultant Polly Sattler (also pictured) to work on permanent and ongoing solutions to reducing Leadership DeKalb's environmental footprint.

Andy and Polly will now lead a volunteer committee comprised of 12 members from the 2008 class to continue implementing sustainabiilty solutions. The Class of 2009's theme will be "Carpe Manana" or Seize Tomorrow, a modification in Executive Director Sara Fountain's mantra of Carpe Diem.

We will focus on what we can do to preserve tomorrow in this column entitled "Carpe Manana." As the Native American proverb states " We do not inherit the land from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children."

Last year, Andy Cummings led his class in recycling when possible, promoted carpooling to programs, suggested making positive changes at home and in the office for a more sustainable environment and encouraged his class to think about their environmental footprint.

Here is one way, you can reduce your impact by Switching to and Recycling CFL Bulbs. Switching from traditional incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs can help save energy and money. By switching out just one bulb, a consumer can save an average of $30 in electricity costs over the lifetime of the bulb. Over its lifetime, a CFL also can save 2000 times its weight in greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. However, CFLs contain mercury, which, when improperly disposed, can contaminate water, soil and air. So, what should you do with a CFL when it needs to be replaced? Some large retailers have started consumer CFL free recycling programs in their stores, including IKEA and Home Depot. To locate other places in your community where you can recycle CFL’s and other materials, visit www.earth911.org.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Leadership DeKalb to Host Membership Open House at Dunwoody City Hall in March

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

DeKalb District Attorney Gwen Keyes Fleming (pictured), a graduate of the Class of 1999 and member of the Board of Directors, will host the Open House and moderate a panel of Leadership DeKalb graduates including Eric Norwood, CEO of DeKalb Medical; Maria Mullins, Director of Economic Development for DeKalb County; Conrado Marion-Landais, Project Manager for Georgia Power; Donna Morgan, Chief of External Affairs for Perimeter Community Improvement Districts (CIDs); and Sara Fountain, Executive Director of Leadership DeKalb.

“Our Open Houses allow individuals interested in Leadership DeKalb an opportunity to meet distinguished graduates, ask questions about the program and learn about eligibility requirements,” says Selection Committee Chair Eric Greenwood, Region Manager for Atlanta Gas Light and a graduate of the Class of 2006. “Each year, approximately 50 established and emerging leaders are accepted from the many applications we receive for our intensive ten-month training program.”

Leadership DeKalb is celebrating its 24th year of leadership training, community connectivity and development of social capital for individuals and organizations committed to improvement of the quality of life in DeKalb County.

The organization has graduated more than 890 individuals, many of whom are CEOs of top public and private companies, government officials, educators, judges, entrepreneurs, community volunteers and nonprofit organization leaders. Graduates join Leadership DeKalb as members and continue the organization’s activities in roles as board or committee members and program or special event volunteers with the adult and Youth Leadership DeKalb programs.

The free Open House will begin with a Networking Reception at 5:30 p.m. and the program will last from 6 – 7 p.m. on March 11 at Dunwoody City Hall, 41 Perimeter Center East, Suite 103, Dunwoody, Georgia 30346. Parking is free and light refreshments will be served.

Reservations can be made by e-mail to info@leadershipdekalb.org or by phone at 404-373-2491.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Annual Member Reunion Becomes World Party, May 15

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

The Leadership DeKalb Annual Reunion is scheduled for Saturday, May 15, 2010 at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center. Get your tickets now!

Enjoy international flavors from A Bokay by JoAnn, Take 2 International Bistro, Grand China and Tah Cha Tea House. Many thanks to beer sponsor The Bubbling Creek Company (Greg Barner '08) and wine sponsor Frederick Wildman & Son's LTD.

Entertainment provided by the Chinese Cultural Center of Atlanta (Chinese Yo-Yo); CORDAO DE OURO - CAPOEIRA (Afro Brazilian Martial Arts Dance); Eve Hao Dance Studio (Chinese Folk Dance); and Percussion Kings of Africa (African drummers).

Purchase tickets now for this exceptionally fun event!

Many thanks to our generous sponsors AT&T, The Champion Newspaper, the City of Decatur, CrossRoads News, DeKalb County Community Development, Hall Booth Smith & Slover, H Mart, O'Leary Partners, Organization of DeKalb Educators, Silverman Construction Program Management and SunTrust Bank.

HOST COMMITTEE

Ron Alston

Faye Andresen

Atlanta Gas Light

Thurbert Baker

Angela Battle

Walt Bryde

The Bubbling Creek Company/Greg Barner

Clarkston Chiropractic

Charlotte Combre

Bill Crane

Delores Crowell

Bettye Davis

DeKalb Medical

Sadie Dennard

Regina Fletcher

Gary Freed

Carolyn Glenn

Eric Greenwood

John Hewitt

Eric Jackson

Deborah Johnson

Commissioner Larry L. Johnson

Ken & Chris Jones

Gwen Keyes Fleming

Christine A. Koehler

Lenz Marketing/John Lenz

Lyn Menne

Leigh Minter

Chris Morris

Bob Moseley

Maria Mullins

Vee Nelson

Susan Neugent

Dan O’Leary

Ricky Padgett

Jennifer Parker

Arthur Ratliff Photography

Julie Ralston

David Schutten

Arnie & Janet Silverman

Bo Spalding

Steele Program Managers, LLC./Jacqui Steele

Richard Stogner

Judy Turner

Betty Willis

Rocio Woody

Charles Yorke

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Leadership DeKalb Hosts Membership Open Houses in February

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

DeKalb District Attorney Gwen Keyes Fleming, a graduate of the Class of 1999, and member of the Leadership DeKalb Board of Directors, will moderate the graduate panels at the Open Houses.

“Each year, approximately 50 established and emerging leaders are accepted from the many applications we receive for our intensive ten-month training program,” says Eric Greenwood ‘06, chair of the selection committee. “Our Open Houses allow individuals interested in Leadership DeKalb an opportunity to meet distinguished graduates, ask questions about the program and learn about eligibility requirements.” A limited number of scholarships are available.

Leadership DeKalb is celebrating its 24th year of leadership training, community connectivity and development of social capital for individuals and organizations committed to improvement of the quality of life in DeKalb County.

The organization has graduated more than 890 individuals, many of whom are CEOs of top public and private companies, government officials, educators, judges, entrepreneurs, community volunteers and nonprofit organization leaders. Graduates join Leadership DeKalb as members and continue the organization’s activities in roles as board or committee members and program or special event volunteers with the adult and Youth Leadership DeKalb programs.

Class membership is only the first step, according to Sara Fountain, Executive Director. She says the experience leads to becoming part of Leadership DeKalb’s vast network of alumni members, which is designed to further develop leadership skills, provide a broader understanding of community issues and establish connections with other leaders.

The free Open Houses will begin with a Networking Reception at 5:30 p.m. and the program will last from 6 – 7 p.m. on February 2 at the DeKalb Medical Women’s Center, 2701 North Decatur Road, Decatur, GA 30033; and on February 9 at DeKalb Medical at Hillandale, 2801 DeKalb Medical Parkway, Lithonia, GA 30058. Light refreshments will be served. Reservations can be made by e-mailing info@leadershipdekalb.org or by phone at 404-373-2491.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Leadership DeKalb Represented at Annual Regional Leadership Day at the Capitol

Friday, December 4, 2009

The groups discussed a penny sales tax on a regional or a statewide approach. The results of the mock legislative exercise are being shared with our DeKalb legislative delegation. We greatly appreciate Thayra Riley '09 for coordinating the Leadership DeKalb group. This year, we had representation from more classes than ever before!

Many thanks to the Regional Business Coalition, chaired by Betty Willis '97, and the Regional Atlanta Civic League for sponsorship of this event. Don't miss this opportunity to network with regional leaders next November.

Back row: Loretta Hicks '09, Matt Hicks '02, Chris Holliday '09, Tonia Warfield '06, Betty Willis '97, Melody Dawkins '08. Front row: Thayra Riley '09, Harold Buckley, Sr. '87, Denise Walker '09, Harold Buckley, Jr. '08, and Jim Tudor '90.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

DeKalb County Sheriff Thomas Brown Supports Youth Leadership DeKalb

Friday, December 4, 2009

"I proudly support Youth Leadership DeKalb because of its proven work in developing future leaders from within DeKalb County's public and private schools,” says Sheriff Brown, who made the first tournament contribution to the program in 2001 and referred to the students as “our future decision-makers and leaders - the most important assets of our community.”

“We are deeply appreciative of Sheriff Brown’s continuous support of our youth program,” says Sara Fountain, Executive Director of Leadership DeKalb. “He is a valued resource for us as a speaker and as a role model for the students.”

Youth Leadership DeKalb, a Leadership DeKalb program, each year selects 30 to 40 accomplished students in the 10th and 11th grades from DeKalb County public and private high schools for its free year-long leadership development experience. Programs sessions include Criminal Justice, Civic Engagement, Healthy Relations and Quality of Life. Students also receive training in business etiquette, time management and personal finance, and they participate in an informational bus tour of the county, a career fair, a day at the State Capitol, MLK Service Day activities and other special events. Programs are funded entirely by contributions.

For more information, click on the Youth Leadership link or call 404-373-2491.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Leadership DeKalb Welcomes Class of 2010

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Leadership DeKalb is pleased to welcome the Class of 2010. They bonded quickly at their Opening Retreat at Amicolola Falls State Park in September and discovered new things about DeKalb during a soggy History Day in October. In November, they explored the topic of "Becoming an Inclusive Leader."

Members of the Leadership DeKalb Class of 2010 are:

Steve Apolinsky, Owner, Apolinsky & Associates, LLC;

Andrew Baker, Associate Director, Planning, DeKalb County

Chris Brand, President/CEO, Friends of Disabled Adults and Children, Too! Inc.

Sam Brannen, Senior Assistant County Attorney, DeKalb County

Burke Brennan, Senior Project Manager, DeKalb County

Doreen Carter, Council Woman, City of Lithonia

Tse-Chih Chang, Vice President, Empire World Trading, Inc.

Jerry Clark, Vice President, Island Def Jam

Roshonda Coleman, Marketing Channel Manager, Gas South

Shaunette Crawford, Associate Director, Program Management, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Becca Crumrine, Attorney, Davis, Matthews & Quigley, PC

Nicole Duff, Teacher, DeKalb County School System

Linda Ellis, Executive Director, Atlanta Lesbian Health Initiative

John Funny, President/CEO, Grice & Associates, Inc.

Jan Gannon, Vice President Patient Care Services/CNO, DeKalb Medical

Et Gentin, Senior Associate, Municipal Group Leader, Brown and Caldwell

Sandeep Gill, Business Relations Manager, DeKalb Workforce Development

Stacy Grear, Assistant Director GIS, DeKalb County

Rebecca Guinn, Executive Director, LifeLine Animal Project

Shay Hable, Associate, Bryan Cave Powell Goldstein

Dorothy Harris, President/CEO, D. Clark Harris, Inc.

Dale Holmes, Assistant Chief, DeKalb County Police Department

Michael Johnson, Chief Operating Officer, DeKalb Community Service Board

Irv Johnson, Manager, DeKalb County Tax Commissioner

Jana Johnson, Owner, Foundation Services, LLC

Brad Johnston, Owner, One Man and a Solution, Inc.

John Kelley, Area Manager, Georgia Power

Beth Laing, Project Manager, We Media

John Lenz, Vice President, Lenz, Inc.

Lori Manns, Owner, Quality Media Consulting Group, LLC

Linda Mayhand, President, Trinity Industrial Supply, LLC

BreNita McCord, Executive Director, Odyssey Family Counseling Center

Angela Moore, First Lady, Clarkston First Baptist Church

Kerri Morrin, Vice President, Branch Executive, Cornerstone Bank

Ricky Padgett, Chief Operating Officer, Skyland Trail

Mia Pressley, Employment & Training Manager, DeKalb Workforce Development

Becky Ramage-Tuttle, President & CEO, disABILITY LINK

Edmond Richardson, Chief of Staff, DeKalb County Commissioner Lee May

Bruce Roaden, Principal, Renfroe Middle School

Roz Rubens-Newell, Of Counsel, McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP

Keith Sagers, Director of Assessment Services, DeKalb Technical College

Janet Scott, Legal Compliance Analyst, DeKalb County Board of Education

Angelique Smith-Hunt, Principal, Champion Middle School

Carol Thedford, Principal, Miller Grove High School

Orzy Theus, Media Relations Director, DeKalb County District Attorney's Office

Verdaillia Turner, President, Georgia Federation of Teachers

Mickey Wade, Utility Operations Liaison, AGL Resources

Woodrow Walker, Senior Pastor Abundant Life Church

Loretta Washington, President and CEO, LCW Engineering, Inc.

Cathleen Wheatley, Senior VP, Chief Quality Officer, DeKalb Medical

Karen Wheel-Carter, Department Chair, Georgia Perimeter College

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Leadership DeKalb Offers 25% Off Workshop for Nonprofit Boards and Staff

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Leadership DeKalb Offers 25% Off Workshop for Nonprofit Boards and Staff

Half-Day Session Improves Organizational Effectiveness of Community Resources

Nonprofit organization board members and staff members have an opportunity to fine tune their skills at a Leadership DeKalb best board practices workshop designed to help the region's social service and civic organizations perform at their highest level.

Leadership DeKalb is now offering a 25% off discount off its regular registration rate! Sign up today and take advantage of this special offer!

Event Details:

Date: Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Time:1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Location:Women’s Center in the Dr. Bobbie Bailey Tower at DeKalb Medical

“Community Leadership through Board Service: A Board Best Practices Workshop,” will be held on Wednesday, December 2, 2009 from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. at The Women’s Center in the Dr. Bobbie Bailey Tower at DeKalb Medical, 2701 N. Decatur Road, Decatur, GA 30030.

Registration is required in advance by November 27, 2009. Refunds cannot be made for cancellations after this date.

The workshop fee, which includes lunch and free parking, is:

* Now $60 (was $80) each for Leadership DeKalb members

* Now $75 (was $100) each for guests and inactive members

* Now $60 each (was $80 each) for groups of three or more who register at the same time as representatives of an organization.

Seating is limited. Click here to register. Call 404/373-2491 or e-mail jessicaaustin@leadershipdekalb.org.

Terri Theisen, a nationally known nonprofit management consultant and founder of Theisen Consulting LLC, will facilitate the workshop.

“Challenging times call for extraordinary board leadership,” says Sara Fountain, Executive Director of Leadership DeKalb. “While we live in
sobering economic times, the nonprofit industry can change the world for the better - one volunteer, one board member, one staff member, one donor and one client at a time.”

Workshop participants who are new or experienced in board membership or who are nonprofit staff members will gain valuable training in these areas: Relationship Management and Fund Raising; Governance and Board Development; Recruitment, Orientation and Engagement of the Board; Evaluating the Board and the CEO/Executive Director; Financial and Risk Management for the Board; and, Reducing Liabilities and Maximizing Success.

"Board members and volunteers are the lifeblood of nonprofits,” says Linda Mayhand, President of the South DeKalb Business Association and member of the Leadership DeKalb Class of 2010, who attended a previous session. “This workshop teaches how to manage those resources to achieve positive, productive outcomes in any economic climate.”

In partnership with the DeKalb County Community Development Department, Leadership DeKalb strives to build social capital in DeKalb County by providing best practices training to nonprofit organizations that enhance our quality of life.

Email this article to a friend | Print this article

Join Leadership DeKalb for A Meaningful Look at Diversity

Monday, October 26, 2009