Page 5 - Leadership Greater Little Rock 2017

ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE • CLASS XXXII OF THE LEADERSHIP GREATER LITTLE ROCK
SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017 5
MEET THE XXXII CHAIR
THAT’S GOING TO LEAVE A MARK
In my view, the primary purpose of Leadership Greater Little Rock is not to make leaders. Its purpose is to take individuals who have already proven them- selves to be leaders and, by exposing them to the opportunities and challenges of our community, enable them to be agents of change. Its purpose is to give these leaders a direction to focus their energy, a means to make a difference.
This past year, Class XXXII attended sessions on the topics of team building, history, education, economic development, military, health and criminal justice. They also worked on projects covering specific neighborhood challenges, as well as opportunities for service offered by local nonprofits. We hope they found each session rewarding and informative in different ways. The sessions were designed to give the class insight into the assets we have in the commu- nity that effect change and the support these institutions require to meet the needs of our citizens.
Every class leaves its mark on the legacy that is Leadership Greater Little Rock. The members of Class XXXII are certainly no exception. It has been my distinct pleasure and privilege to have shared this year’s journey with them.
I have watched each of them bring their own unique perspectives to the table. I have seen the sharing of their diverse life experiences broaden in one another, an appreciation for the community they live in and the citizens who make a life here. Eyes have been opened, connections made, bonds formed. It has been another successful year. Like a proud parent, I am pleased that Leadership has left its mark on Class XXXII. It was rewarding for me to have been a part of it. I am grateful.
None of this would be possible without the generous support of the Little Rock Regional Chamber and the many sponsors who contribute to this program. With- out them, the ship simply does not sail. This past year, we had over 90 volunteer speakers give their valuable time to shed the light for the benefit of the cause. Many of them are Leadership alumni who simply can’t shake the Leadership bug. Their love for this community is obvious, and I thank them for their contributions.
This year has marked the end of an era. Our beloved Judy Love, longtime ex- ecutive director of Leadership, has fully retired and passed the torch to the capa- ble and ever-lovely Melinda Moody (who happens to be my wife). Judy was the face of Leadership for so long. She will always be loved and is already missed.
Replacing a legend is always a daunting task. I have watched Melinda worry about how she will do it all. She wonders how she will measure up. Melinda has worked very hard to ensure that this class got the best Leadership has to offer. I am very proud of what she has accomplished. Her devotion and commitment to this program are evident. I am confident she is already well on her way to leaving her own mark on Leadership. Melinda, we thank you.
I want to thank Robin Connell, Class XXXII curriculum chair, for the positive energy she brings to every day. She al- ways had my back. She was the highlight of my year. I wish you luck in the coming year as chairman of Class XXXIII.
Congratulations, Class XXXII. I chal- lenge you to make a difference. I chal- lenge you to act on what you have learned. I challenge you to leave a mark.
Jay Moody
Class XXXII Chairman Class XVII Member
WE KNOW A GREAT THING
WHEN WE SEE IT.
From your conceptual skills to your design skills to your leadership skills, Greater Little Rock is a greater place with you in it. Congratulations, Bill, on your graduation from Leadership Greater Little Rock XXXII.
Your friends at Stone Ward.