The Latest News Releases
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.
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?
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
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.
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.
Leadership DeKalb to Host Membership Open House at Dunwoody City Hall in March
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Leadership DeKalb will host an Open House on Thursday, March 11 at Dunwoody City Hall for active and influential leaders who are interested in community leadership training. Nominations for the Class of 2011 are being accepted now.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.
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
Leadership DeKalb Hosts Membership Open Houses in February
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Leadership DeKalb will host its annual Open Houses for prospective members on February 2 at the DeKalb Medical Women’s Center and February 9 at DeKalb Medical at Hillandale. Nominations for the Class of 2011 are being accepted now. Candidates must live or work in DeKalb County.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.
Leadership DeKalb Represented at Annual Regional Leadership Day at the Capitol
Friday, December 4, 2009
Each year, the community leadership programs in the region convene to discuss a topic of importance prior to the next legislative session. This year's topic was how to fund our transportation needs. About 20 Leadership DeKalb members participated with over 200 other metro area leaders.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.
DeKalb County Sheriff Thomas Brown Supports Youth Leadership DeKalb
Friday, December 4, 2009
Youth Leadership DeKalb class members are among the beneficiaries of this year’s Sheriff Thomas Brown Annual Golf Tournament held on November 3, 2009, at the Celebrity Golf Club in Tucker. DeKalb County Sheriff Thomas Brown, a 1991 graduate of Leadership DeKalb and recipient of the 2001 Distinguished Alumni Award, hosts the charitable tournament each year to provide a resource for funding community service programs."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.
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
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.
Join Leadership DeKalb for A Meaningful Look at Diversity
Monday, October 26, 2009
Join Leadership DeKalb for “A Class Divided” Documentary and Conversation on Diversity and InclusionSponsored by Cornerstone Bank
Cornerstone Bank, Community Room, 125 Clairmont Avenue, Decatur 30030 Tuesday, November 17, 2009 - 7-9 p.m. – Free
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 17, 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 Clairmont 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 ’07. 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. 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.
Leadership DeKalb Partners With Habitat for Humanity- DeKalb to Complete Home
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Each Saturday for the past few months, Leadership DeKalb members have joined Habitat for Humanity-DeKalb and Kaiser Permanente to rebuild a home in the Belvedere community. The home is Habitat-DeKalb's 50th house!Shannon Williams '09, has served as the Leadership DeKalb project manager. Most of the volunteers have been graduates from the Class of 2009 who wanted to support their classmate and Habitat-DeKalb Executive Director Joe Stoner '09.
Each week, Leadership DeKalb members, employees of Kaiser Permanente, members of the Belvedere community and the family who will be moving in the Habitat House have worked to complete the home by the November 7th dedication date. Members of the Youth Leadership DeKalb Class of 2010 have joined in the last couple of weeks.
Please join us on Saturday, November 7th at 2985 Catalina Drive, Decatur 30032 at 10 a.m. to commemorate this project and celebrate its completion! Enjoy refreshments and hear from those who have taken part in the project.
Health Care for Americans: A Right or a Privilege?
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
With the goal of providing credible and balanced information to the public, Leadership DeKalb will present a comprehensive educational forum on health care and the proposed federal legislation. Health Care for Americans: A Right or a Privilege? A Serious Conversation on the National Issue of Health Care Reform will be held on Friday, September 18, 2009 from 7:30 until 10 a.m. at the Atlanta Marriott Century Center, 2000 Century Center Boulevard, NE, Atlanta, GA 30345.
WABE-FM news reporter Denis O’Hayer will moderate the interactive discussion. Panel members will be Eric Norwood, FACHE, President and CEO of DeKalb Medical; Arthur L. Kellermann, MD, MPH, Professor and Associate Dean for Health Policy at Emory School of Medicine; Ronald E. Bachman, FSA, MAAA, President and CEO of Healthcare Visions, Inc.; and, Sandra Elizabeth Ford, MD, MBA, DeKalb District Health Director.
“This conversation will feature presentations from four experts in health care. Panelists include a nationally known insurance authority who has counseled the Bush White House and congressional leaders on insurance and health care reform issues. Another panelist is a doctor who covers the physician’s point of view, trauma care readiness, the uninsured and medical academia. Our third panelist is a hospital CEO who presents a compelling look at how taxpayers already pay for the uninsured. The final panelist is a public health official who advocates for individual responsibility for personal healthy choices,” says Sara Fountain, executive director of Leadership DeKalb.
“Access to healthcare is not the primary issue in this debate – Americans have access,” says Norwood. “It’s being paid for by an expanding, invisible tax on the few who still have health insurance. The significance of this debate is that it can affect how our children and grandchildren access the kind of quality healthcare they need. We can’t afford to get this wrong.”
“Our goal is to educate our members and all leaders in the community about the issues and the daunting task that our lawmakers are facing as they attempt to resolve some very critical social and economic problems affecting the lives of all Americans, “ says Sara Fountain, executive director of Leadership DeKalb.
“We are creating an intimate setting in which our moderator will lead an interactive discussion with panelists answering audience questions. We expect this forum will open new lines of communication for our guests. We know it will provide them with additional resources for the critical issues facing corporate and consumer citizens alike in the coming weeks. Invited guests include local, state and federal elected officials, who we expect will attend to hear community concerns.”
Paid reservations are required and can be made through PayPal or by phone at 404-373-2491. The program, which is open to the public, is the second in Leadership DeKalb’s 2009 Eggs and Issues Breakfast series on topics of community concern. Cost for guests is $35, Leadership DeKalb active members $25.
Annual Meeting Planned for September 1, 2009
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Click Events to make your reservations online. Active members pay $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Inactive members and guests are $25 each. Admission includes wine, beer and delicious appetizers.
* Connect and renew friendships
* Thank outgoing Chair Ken Jones'00 for a great year of leadership
* Welcome new Board Chair Maria Mullins '08
* Elect new officers and Board members
* Present 2009 Alumni Awards
* See the winning skit from the Class of 2009 Study Group Challenge
(Well worth the price of admission!)
Many thanks to Board Member Betty Willis '97 and Emory University for hosting this event!
The Miller-Ward House is located at 815 Houston Mill Road, Atlanta 30329.
Call 404-373-2491
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Leadership DeKalb Graduates Largest Class in 23-Year History
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
“Leadership DeKalb has graduated nearly 900 men and women in 23 years and continues to connect leaders from business, education, politics, government, faith-based and community organizations,” says Sara A. Fountain, Executive Director. “We are proud that the participants in Leadership DeKalb reflect the community’s diversity and multiculturalism and, that through this time together, they have become colleagues, as well as friends, as they work to help shape the future of our region.”The graduates will join distinguished Leadership DeKalb alumni for continued leadership development, networking and service as community trustees for DeKalb County.
Graduates of the 2009 Leadership DeKalb program:
* Janice Barrocas, Principal, The Barrocas Group, LLC
* Marc Boston, Principal, Ronald E. McNair Discovery Learning Academy
* Wendolyn Bouie, Assistant Superintendent, DeKalb County Schools
* Donna Brazzell, Executive Director, DeKalb Library Foundation, DeKalb County Public Library
* Frankie Callaway, Deputy Superintendent, DeKalb County Schools
* Viviane Ernstes, Chief Assistant County Attorney, DeKalb County
* Becky Evans, Community Volunteer
* Melissa Forgey, Executive Director, DeKalb History Center
* Clay Fowler, Vice President and Administrator, DeKalb Medical at Hillandale
* Jennifer Friday, President, The Friday Consulting Group, LLC
* Joel Gottlieb, Assistant Finance Director, DeKalb County
* Riccarda Heising, Partner, Powell Goldstein, LLP
* Loretta Hicks, Director of Business and Community Services, DeKalb Technical College
* Christopher Holliday, Division Manager- Health Assessment & Promotion, DeKalb County Board of Health
* Jodie Huiet, Manager, Community Affairs, AGL Resources
* Oksana Humphreys, Senior Marketing Research Analyst, Southern Company
* Luis Izaguirre, Executive Director, Hispanic American Center for Economic Development
* Eric Jackson, Public Information Officer, DeKalb County Fire Rescue Department
* Robert James, Solicitor-General, DeKalb County
* Terence Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, Catalyst for Care
* Cindi Johnson, Executive Director, Side By Side Brain Injury Clubhouse
* Stacey Keegan, Attorney, The Home Depot, Inc.
* Wanda Kight, Senior Project Manager, DeKalb County
* John King, Police Chief, City of Doraville
* Robin Kirby, Director of Development, Senior Connections
* Ernest Kiser, Director, Newmark Knight Frank
* Charles Lambert, Deputy Director, Construction and Maintenance DeKalb County
* Eric Larson, Vice President, Commercial Lending, Cornerstone Bank
* Jan Lauten, Associate Executive Director, Decatur-DeKalb YMCA
* Dana Lawrence, Community Prosecutor, DeKalb District Attorney's Office
* Claudia Lawson, Tax Commissioner, DeKalb County
* Claudette Leak, Call Center Manager, DeKalb County
* Keith Lee, Assistant Police Chief, City of Decatur
* Ros Lett, Chief Executive Officer, Information-2-Knowledge, LLC
* Conrado Marion-Landais, Project Manager, Georgia Power Company
* Felicia Mitchell, Chief of Staff, DeKalb County Schools
* Robert Moore, Lieutenant/ Assistant Court Division Commander, DeKalb County Sheriff's Office
* Vivian Moore, Health Coordinator, Fulton County Health & Wellness
* Hector Morales, Program Manager, Hendessi & Associates, LLC
* Vee Nelson, President, V. Nelson Associates, Inc.
* Raquel Ornelas, President/CEO, Ornelas Associates, Inc.
* David Payne, Director of Communications, Campus Planning and Outreach Emory University
* Linda Reid, National Accounts Manager, Aetna Health Insurance
* Thayra Riley, Transportation Planning Manager, Emory University
* Polly Sattler, Co-Director, Green Plate
* Katie Shebesh, Chief Management Officer, Center for Disease Control
* Geralyn Smith, Human Resources Manager, Piccadilly Restaurants, LLC
* Bo Spalding, Principal, Jackson Spalding, Inc.
* Joe Stoner, Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity
* Gloria Talley, Deputy Superintendent for Curriculum/Instruction, DeKalb County Schools
* Josephine Tan, Senior Community Development Representative, Georgia Power
* Denise Walker, Assistant Director of Community Affairs, Emory University Office of Governmental and Community Affairs
* Nyre Williams, Director of The First Tee of East Lake, East Lake Foundation
* Shannon Williams, Assistant Director, Health and Wellness, DeKalb County Schools
* Curtis Williams, Commander - South Precinct, DeKalb County Police
###
Rush Hour Connector Planned for June 23 at Emory Conference Center
Friday, June 12, 2009
Tuesday, June 235:30-8 p.m.
Emory Conference Center Hotel's new wing!
Come join your Leadership DeKalb friends and colleagues on Tuesday, June 23 as we kick-off summer with the next Rush Hour Connector, hosted at the new wing of the Emory Conference Center Hotel, 1615 Clifton Road, NE, Atlanta. The new wing features an event space with a trendy bar and first-of-its-kind bowling alley, Wisteria Lanes.
Admission is $7 per person or bring a guest and take advantage of our "two for $10" admission offer! Admission includes appetizers and bowling. Cash bar available.
Representatives from DeKalb's Drug Court will be on site to accept "Business Attire" clothing donations.
Mark your calendars and watch for future correspondence! R.S.V.P. to Amena Mitchell: atmitchellgroup@aol.com
It's a celebration of Summer, Succession and Stewardship!
* Summer - A perfect excuse to celebrate!
* Succession - Congratulations to the Class of '09
* Stewardship - Donate clothing to the the DeKalb Drug Court clothing drive and support Youth Leadership DeKalb with event proceeds.
Carpe Manana Connected Alumni and Benefitted Youth Leadership
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Judge Gregory A. Adams (pictured at left) received the Community Leadership Award for 2008. This award is presented by the Community Leadership Association. Ken Jones, Chair of the Leadership DeKalb Board of Directors, congratulated Judge Adams on this honor.
Robert Soens was the recipient of Leadership DeKalb's Distinguished Alumni Award and the 2009 Community Leadership Award. Julia Glenn Carter accepted for Robert who was unable to attend. Lynn Cherry Grant was the recipient of the Sue Ellen Owens Leadership Award. David Schutten accepted for Lynn who was unable to attend. Event co-chairs Leigh Minter and Julie Childs did an excellent job of leading the reunion committee. Many thanks to all the volunteers who served on this committee! More photos from the Carpe Manana reunion are available at arthurratliffphotography.com.
Youth Leadership DeKalb Graduates 27 Students
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Douglas R. Hooker, Vice President and East Director for PBS&J, a national engineering and architecture firm, delivered the keynote address that encouraged the students to turn their leadership skills into tangible projects in their schools and community. Hooker is well known for his leadership with regional environmental organizations and motivational speeches about community activism.
Class members Kurt Zellner of Dunwoody High School and Riane Sharpe of Woodward Academy shared reflections of the class experience. Leadership DeKalb graduates Faye Andresen and Angela Battle serve as the co-chairs of the Youth Leadership DeKalb Advisory Council. “Youth Leadership DeKalb started off the year with an overnight retreat. The Diversity Program presented by Pollie Massey Battle, Principal of OMS Consulting and Training, was a perfect way to begin the year with our future classmates. Her program helped us better understand ourselves before we could understand others,” states Belan Hamad, Graduate of YLD 2009 and Leadership DeKalb Summer Intern. This year Youth Leadership DeKalb instituted an intern program where graduates of the 2008 class assisted with the 2009 class. Those interns were: Talal Akbar, Druid Hills High School; Michael Asmelash, Tucker High School; Medinah La Fleur, Martin Luther King High School; Rashad Robertson, Clarkston High ; Jalisia Taylor-Singleton, Clarkston High. Youth Leadership DeKalb has accepted 48 students for the Class of 2010. For more information on Youth Leadership DeKalb, visit www.leadershipdekalb.org. Graduates of the 2009 Youth Leadership DeKalb class are: ; Avondale High School Diamond Howell Kasahun Neselu Yantria Moore Cedar Grove High School TaShamber Smith Ramone Sutherland Chamblee Charter High School Alanna Gardner Clarkston High School Elijah Dean Belan Hamad DeKalb Early College Mohamed Kande Druid Hills High School
Te'lisha Middlebrooks Dunwoody High School Kelly Dwyer Nicole Morrison Kurt Zellner Lakeside High School Tatiana Galiano Miller Grove High School Lauren Flanigan McNair High School Nandi Geiger Johnathan Putmon Redan High School Sydney Mason Southwest DeKalb High School Malik Bradford Caambridge Horton Nolan Meadors The Westminster School Caroline Reed Tucker High School Cailey Forstall Bre Robinson Taylor Wimbly Woodward Academy Riane Sharp ###
Toasts & Tales: A Salute to Richard Stogner Planned for May 31
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Special guests who will raise a glass to toast him for his inexplicable longevity in the face of an ever-changing political landscape include former Atlanta Mayor Sam Massell; Metro Atlanta Chamber President Sam Williams; former Department of Industry, Trade and Tourism Commissioner George Berry; community advocate Tally Sweat; other assorted notables, and we hope you, too! Event Details: Date: Sunday, May 31, 2009 Time: 5 - 7 p.m. Location: Callanwolde Fine Arts Center As a tribute to his own generosity and in recognition of his many accomplishments, we hope you will make a donation to this event and to a legacy gift for USO Georgia where Richard has been actively involved as a Board member for 20 years, providing care and support for our country’s military personnel. We hope to see you there! RSVP The event is free; however, reservations are necessary. You may reserve by calling the Leadership DeKalb office at 404-373-2491 or e-mailing jessicaaustin@leadershipdekalb.org. Leadership DeKalb is accepting donations to this event and this cause. Please visit the Events page to make a donation. If you are unable to attend, we hope you will contribute to the legacy gift to USO Georgia in Richard’s honor. Steering Commitee Mary Lou Austin, Tina Arbes, George Berry, Marvin Billups, Sara Fountain, Angelo Fuster, Sam Goldman, Susan Hood, Kristin Howlett, Kelly Jordan, Emma Moss, Jonathan Shils, Arnie Silverman, Kendric Smith, Tally Sweat
Eggs & Issues Features DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis Discussing
Thursday, April 9, 2009
After serving only a few months in the county’s highest office, new DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis ’96 is looking ahead at Building a New Consensus for a Better DeKalb, the mantra for his administration. Join Leadership DeKalb for this first look at “THE FIRST 100 DAYS” and how the new administration is working for you and get a glimpse into plans for DeKalb’s future.
The Eggs & Issues Breakfast with DeKalb Chief Executive Officer Burrell Ellis is Wednesday, May 13, 2009 from 7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m. at the Druid Hills Golf Club, 740 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30307. Eggs & Issues is sponsored by Silverman Construction Program Management.
Ellis will report on his progress towards meeting the goals of his community-based Transition Team. With a severely declining economy and a reduced tax base, Ellis faces a tough set of challenges that he will address including:
· Revenue shortfalls.
· Greater efficiency and improved organizational effectiveness at all levels of government.
· Interdepartmental planning, cross-functional teams, and collaboration.
· A county-wide technology check-up.
· Changing how the County debates and resolves matters of public policy.
· Executive leadership involvement in regional issues.
· Constructive engagement with DeKalb’s municipalities.
· Research into creating special tax districts for high priority needs.
It’s now the second quarter of this pivotal year. Join Leadership DeKalb for this first look at how the new administration is working for you and get a glimpse into plans for DeKalb’s future.
Click here to purchase tickets.
LD Grads Tapped to Lead DeKalb into New Administrative Era
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Some 14 members of DeKalb Chief Executive Officer-Elect Burrell Ellis' official 40-member Transition Committee were graduates of Leadership DeKalb.
In unprecedented testament to the effectiveness of Leadership DeKalb as the county's premier leadership training organization, the newly elected CEO (Class of 1996) tapped a number of his fellow graduates, including Executive Director Sara Fountain, to help plan for the "efficient, thoughtful and orderly" transition of the county's most important public office.
Leadership DeKalb members who served as committee co-chairs are Robert L. Brown '92, president of R. L. Brown & Associates, Georgia Department of Transportation board member, and former chair of the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority; and Gale Walldorff '95, former District 2 DeKalb Commissioner and former presiding officer of the Board of Commissioners.
Those graduates chairing subcommittees were Thomas Brown '91, (Public Safety) Sheriff, DeKalb County and former DeKalb County Public Safety Director; and Dr. Sandra Ford '06, (Operating Departments) Interim Director of the Georgia Division of Public Health and former District Health Director for the DeKalb County Board of Health.
Serving on subcommittees to study public safety, operating departments, administrative departments, and external agencies are Steen Miles '02, author and television personality; Jonathan Weintraub '95, former County Attorney; Rocio Woody '04, Executive Director of The Road to Recovery; Bobbie Sanford '87, Owner of Sanford Realty and Past President of the DeKalb Realty Association; Judy Turner '93, President of Decatur First Bank; Bettye Davis '06, President of Davis Community Solutions, LLC, and former Executive Director of the DeKalb Housing Authority; Marcia Glenn Hunter '88, former Lithonia Mayor; Cassandra Littlejohn '06, member and former chair of the DeKalb County Board of Education; Dr. Josephine Tan '09, Sr. Community Development Representative for Georgia Power; and, Sara Fountain '92, Executive Director of Leadership DeKalb.
In a news conference following his election, Ellis said his Transition Committee reflected the "full diversity of DeKalb County," an ongoing objective of each Leadership DeKalb class since the program began in 1986.
Stogner Joins Leadership DeKalb Board
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Leadership DeKalb has added Richard A. Stogner to its Board of Directors. Stogner retired recently after eight years as Executive Assistant to the DeKalb County CEO’s office and County Administrator for the DeKalb Board of Commissioners. “Richard brings to our board a legacy of strong business and community leadership intelligence, along with a broad knowledge of the metro area’s issues and resources,” says Ken Jones, board chair. “His participation with Leadership DeKalb at this level greatly enhances our effectiveness and will help us achieve our goals for further growth and development.” Stogner’s extensive career in public service includes positions with the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games and Hartfield/Jackson Atlanta International Airport. He was Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Atlanta under several administrations, and he directed the offices of budget, finance and economic development for Fulton County. Founded in 1986, Leadership DeKalb is a non-profit community leadership development organization for positive change which continues to annually train and build a network of ethnically and culturally-diverse, well-informed leaders and emerging leaders who are committed to addressing and resolving issues that impact the quality of life in DeKalb County and the metro region. Over 900 emerging and established leaders have completed the intensive leadership program. For more information, visit www.leadershipdekalb.org. ###
Now Accepting Applications for the Class of 2010
Saturday, February 16, 2008
A Selection Committee comprised of Leadership DeKalb graduates will determine the members of the Class of 2010. If you are selected, you will be asked to commit to attending two overnight retreats and seven full-day program sessions. Additionally, Class members meet monthly in a study group and participate in other enrichment activities. These sessions give Class members an opportunity to meet face to face with key decision makers as well as to develop a valuable network of friends and colleagues.
Your completed applications must be received in our office by Wednesday, March 18, in order to be considered for this Class. We will notify candidates of their selection in April. If you have questions about the application process, please call our office at 404-373-2491 or e-mail info@leadershipdekalb.org.
We urge you to take the time to fully develop your application as this is the only method the Selection Committee has of knowing about you and the selection will be made upon the information you provide. Do not attach a resume or any other documents other than the pages with your typewritten answers to the Essay Questions. Attaching a resume in lieu of answering the questions is not acceptable. Applications returned via fax or e-mail will not be accepted.
Tuition for the program is $3,000 and may be paid by either yourself or a sponsor. Your sponsor may be your employer or another organization with which you are affiliated as a volunteer. If you are selected, the full tuition is due upon acceptance but not later than May 18, 2009. (We have a limited number of scholarships valued at $450 each, reducing the tuition to $2,550. To be considered for a scholarship, please indicate your need on your application.)
Upon successful completion of the 10-month program, you will become an active member of Leadership DeKalb, a non-partisan not-for-profit organization that has fostered networking and connections among its 900 distinguished graduates to positively impact DeKalb County for 23 years.
Students May Apply To Youth Leadership DeKalb
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Celebrating the rich cultural and ethnic diversity of our county, the YLD program focuses on: * Self awareness * Understanding others * Teamwork * Community awareness and responsibility * Leadership skills
Through experiential and interactive monthly workshops, a weekend retreat, and a community service project, participants learn ways a diverse group of people working together can positively impact their community.
As they explore timely issues, YLD students also learn to conduct meetings, resolve conflicts, and appreciate diversity. Graduates of the adult Leadership DeKalb program, who are distinguished leaders in the County, share with students the importance of community service. For more information, e-mail info@leadershipdekalb.org or call 404-373-2491.
The deadline to apply for the Class of 2010 is March 18, 2009. Please deliver or mail your application to the Leadership DeKalb office at 315 West Ponce de Leon Avenue, Decatur, Georgia 30030.
Legacy Communities' Sponsorship Benefits Youth Leadership DeKalb
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Legacy Communities has become the largest corporate supporter of Youth Leadership DeKalb with its sponsorship of Leadership DeKalb's Golf Classic at East Lake Golf Club for the third tournament in a row.
Youth Leadership DeKalb is a program designed to develop the leadership skills of young people in DeKalb County so they may confidently become leaders of tomorrow. Celebrating the rich cultural and ethnic diversity of our county, the Youth Leadership DeKalb program focuses on self awareness, understanding others, teamwork, community awareness, responsibility and leadership skills.
Youth Leadership DeKalb accepts about 30 high school students each year for the 10-month program. Participants do not pay tuition and the program is solely funded by corporate sponsors, foundations and Leadership DeKalb members.
"This level of support from Legacy Communities is invaluable to the Youth Leadership DeKalb program," said Executive Director Sara Fountain. "We are very grateful to Legacy for working with us for three tournaments in a row."
Legacy Communities presents Youth Leadership DeKalb with a check for $15,000 to underwrite the youth leadership program. Pictured from left to right are Tom Justice, President of Legacy Realty Group; Sara Fountain, Executive Director of Leadership DeKalb; Tom Black, President of Legacy Land Development; Scott Schmidt, President of Legacy Communities; and Steve Been, CEO of Legacy Communities.
The Leadership DeKalb Golf Classic at East Lake Golf Course had a shamble format and the First Place Net Team was comprised of Jason Conn, Alan Dishman, Mark Treese and Steve German. The First Place Gross Team was Eric Greenwood, Wes Ward, Abdus Raoof and William Fuller.
Morris Williams won the Closest to the Hole contest on hole 6 and Chuck Johnson II won the Longest Drive contest on the 14th hole.
315 West Ponce de Leon Avenue, Suite 1069, Decatur, GA 30030 · (404) 373-2491
info@leadershipdekalb.org
©Leadership DeKalb 2010
