The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Batesville class visited the Capitol Monday to learn more about state government and state-wide organizations.
George’s Inc. sponsored the “Introduction to State Government” session.
“Introducing the Leadership Batesville class to our elected officials at the state level and state-wide partners is a valuable experience for the leaders of our community,” said Crystal Johnson, CEO of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce.
Participants started their day in Little Rock with a Capitol tour led by State Rep. Stu Smith. Smith serves on the Joint Committee on Public Retirement and Social Security Programs, the Legislative Joint Auditing Committee, the House Education Committee, and the House Aging, Children and Youth, Legislative & Military Affairs Committee.
The next stop was to the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce. Participants visited with Kenny Hall, executive vice president and chief lobbyist for the state chamber. Hall represents positions on enhancing the quality of the business climate in Arkansas before selected government entities, including the legislature, the governor’s office, and various state agencies, committees, and boards.
Participants also met with James Sturch, Arkansas State Senator and an educator at Southside Schools. Sturch is the chair of the Legislative Joint Auditing-Educational Institutions Committee, vice-chair of the Senate Rules Committee, a member of the Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace Oversight, Game and Fish/State Police, and Lottery Oversight subcommittees. Sturch recounted his early life in Independence County and the experiences that led him to a life of public service.
“Having the opportunity to hear from our local elected officials was a real treat. We have wonderful people representing our community at the Capitol, and I, for one, am thankful to see those who come from an education background using their platform to improve schools across the state,” said Megan Renihan, communications coordinator for the Batesville School District.
Leadership Batesville prepares emerging leaders to serve the community. Through shared experiences and frequent interactions, participants engage in a nine-month curriculum inspired by IMPACT Independence County — a strategic plan developed by hundreds of Independence County residents.
State Sen. James Sturch speaks to the Leadership Batesville Class.
Kenny Hall (standing), executive vice president and chief lobbyist for the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce, discusses his presentation to the Leadership Batesville class.
State Rep. Stu Smith (above, center, in tie) leads a tour of the State Capitol for the Leadership Batesville class. (All images submitted.)
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