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Van Tilbury: Congratulations To Emerging Leaders As Program’s Mission Continues

2 min read

Congratulations to the graduates of Leadership Greater Little Rock Class XXX!

Seventeen years have passed since I graduated as a member of Class XIII, commonly known among Leadership alumni as “the greatest class ever.” As I look back at the accomplishments of my classmates, the positions of influence they hold across our city and state today, and the promise of what they will accomplish in the future, I am humbled and realize that Class XIII’s designation as “the greatest class ever” might be an understatement.

In LGLR’s 30 years of connecting talented, community-oriented leaders and immersing them in a nine-month course of full-day sessions — including history, community, education, government and politics, criminal justice and public safety, healthcare, military, and economic development — the program has produced measurable positive results through its more than 1,400 graduates to date. Alumni include a secretary of state, president pro tempore of the senate, adjutant general of the Arkansas National Guard, two university presidents, six Chamber chairmen, two federal judges and many talented business and community leaders who are busy making a difference in Arkansas.

Here is what I love most about LGLR: first of all, the classes are made up of accomplished leaders representing all sectors in central Arkansas, so participants are assured of building relationships with like-minded people they otherwise might not meet.

Second, the intentional blending of leaders with different professional backgrounds and personal beliefs assures robust discussion from all viewpoints, well-formed conclusions and powerful ideas that help our diverse community and diverse economy thrive.

Third, many sessions involve expert speakers, panelists, tours and group presentations related to the topic for that session, so the program content is rich and the learning is real.

Finally, participants can expect to make and keep great friends who will provide a lifetime, personal connection to almost every business sector and major employer in central Arkansas. This is a powerful benefit that will serve them well into the future.

Truly, Leadership Greater Little Rock is a full immersion experience focused on one mission: to make a noticeable, positive difference in the quality of life in central Arkansas. As a committed advocate for a stronger, better, safer Little Rock region, I offer my thanks to Class XXX for your commitment to that mission, as well as my congratulations on your completion of this program. And I look forward to meeting and encouraging future classes as they repeat the process.

Onward and upward!

Van Tilbury
Chairman, Board of Directors
Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce 2015

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