Testimonials

Thurbert BakerI can say without hesitation that Leadership DeKalb prepared me for the rigors of public life better than any other program in Georgia. The opportunity to watch government up close and truly learn the mission of service providers has made me a better Attorney General.
Thurbert E. Baker '88,
Attorney General of Georgia

It was a terrific experience for me in so many ways, particularly as a fairly recent resident of the county. Not very long into the retreat did I realize that the program was going to be much more that a networking opportunity, but also a personal and professional growth opportunity. Those mixes of public and private sector, for profit and non-profit, and young and experienced helped raise the class's collective consciousness way above the bar.
Jack Regan '08
Vice President, Commerical Lender
Decatur First Bank

Leadership DeKalb connects people in powerful ways. Friendships happen naturally over the course of the training program and last long past "graduation." The alumni group offers more opportunities for friendship and business connections to develop. Leadership DeKalb has proven to be an invaluable connection for me in my business as an Executive Coach. I'm always proud to say that I am a graduate of Leadership DeKalb.
Jane McMullan Howe '00
CEO, Coach Atlanta

Regardless of where you are in your career and the nature of your chosen profession, the experience of Leadership DeKalb is one that can solidify a foundation for future growth. The Leadership DeKalb experience has the power to rekindle the motivation that is often lost in the day-to-day routine of work life.
Marcey Dolgoff '96

My Leadership DeKalb experience really motivated me to become more involved in the community, both in DeKalb and Atlanta. I learned that I really could make a difference in whatever area I choose. And that connection continues. If I have a question or problem – government, community, business, civic – there is most likely a Leadership DeKalb alumnus I can contact for help and information.
Alex Wan
President, Optima, Inc.

Judy Turner

Leadership DeKalb was a mind-stretching experience. It helped me see possibilities I had never considered prior to the regular interaction with 37 civic and business leaders. The programs were outstanding and provided an opportunity to learn more about DeKalb County and about leadership. It gave me the confidence to leave a company that I’d worked with for 28 years and seek a new career opportunity, which eventually led to the establishment of Decatur First Bank.
Judy Turner '93
President, Decatur First Bank

Leadership DeKalb provided a wonderful opportunity for me to learn more about our county – especially DeKalb’s inner workings and its rich and vibrant history. I had the chance to meet some awesome people and developed friendships with many of them that will last a long time.
Thurya Wingate '02
Executive Director, Prevention Alliance

As a very small business owner, completion of the Leadership Class put me in touch with anyone in the County. My telephone calls either went right through or I had a return call in minutes. This was a tremendous leg up in my business and in my community service.
Bill Hawes '89
President, The Hawes Company

My experience with Leadership DeKalb afforded me an opportunity to collaborate with and benefit from the experiences of some very knowledgeable and seasoned class members. Those experiences allowed me to network with people who were later able to assist me in accessing resources that have benefited my constituents and enlightened my life.
Marcia Glenn '88
Mayor of Lithonia, 1996 to 2004

Dave MoodyLeadership DeKalb has been enlightening and educational. I’ve learned so much about the community, and I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to network with community leaders. I highly recommend it.
David Moody '08
President, C.D. Moody Construction Co.