Leadership Highlands

Written By: Johanna Fein, Highlands Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Highlands, NC | Issue: December 2024

The Leadership Highlands program, organized by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC, recently announced the graduation of its 2024 class.

This year’s graduates are: Clark de Bullet, Seanne Bresnahan, Lesley Galloway, Debby Hall, Lindsay Hostetler, Deborah Kirk, Bianca Mitchell, Mia Nelson, Tina Rogers, Cynthia Shahed, Andrew Spraggins, Julie Upshaw, Christina Vives, and Rachel Wavra.

Over the course of eight months, these individuals dedicated themselves to a program aimed at enhancing their leadership abilities while deepening their understanding of the civic, economic, and cultural landscape of Highlands.

The program commenced in March and concluded with a formal graduation ceremony in October. Participants embarked on a comprehensive curriculum, which included an immersive retreat, monthly day-long sessions, and principle-based decision-making exercises. As they progressed through the program, they explored a wide array of topics vital to the community’s success – ranging from public safety and economic development to arts and outdoor recreation.

Kaye McHan, Executive Director of Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC remarked “We are incredibly proud of our 2024 Leadership Highlands graduates. Their dedication and commitment to enhancing their leadership skills will have a lasting impact on their respective businesses, nonprofits, and the Highlands community as a whole.”

The Leadership Highlands program has been a cornerstone of civic engagement and professional growth.

This year’s class tackled critical topics such as Highlands’ rich history, government functions, health and human services, and environmental stewardship.

Bianca Mitchell, Director of Marketing at The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts and a 2024 graduate, reflected on the program’s significance: “Leadership Highlands has been an invaluable experience, fostering both personal growth and a deeper understanding of Highlands’ civic, cultural, and economic landscape. The program’s immersive curriculum – covering topics from history, the arts, public safety, and our natural environment to economic development—has provided me with the opportunity to connect with local experts and peers. I am grateful to the Chamber of Commerce for offering this informative and enriching program and encourage anyone interested in gaining a deeper insight into Highlands to apply.”

Applications for the 2025 Leadership Highlands program are available at highlandschamber.org/chamber/leadership-highlands/ and are being accepted until noon, Wednesday, December 11.