Ashley Sroufe, Branch Supervisor for ANB Bank’s Patterson location had lived in the Grand Valley and was already involved in her community through service on the Board of Child and Migrant Services and as a member of the Palisade Chamber. What value did she see in committing to over 60 hours of training through the Mesa County Leadership Program in 2015-2016? Her application said it all. “I am in a leadership role but I am always looking to better myself and the company I work for.”
“If there is one thing we have learned in our years of offering the Mesa County Leadership class to over 340 individuals it is that each person is unique in where they are in life, in their careers and in their civic involvement,” noted Diane Schwenke, President and CEO of the Chamber. She went on to explain that everyone without exception learns something new. That was true of Ashley who noted that not being from the Western Slope it was a huge eye-opener for her to learn about the different programs and companies in the Valley and what they do for the community.
Outside of class there were additional benefits. Sroufe noted that being able to build relationships with her fellow classmates was also something she valued from her experience. She also feels more involved and engaged in her community.
Applications for the next Mesa County Leadership Program will be accepted through May 31st, 2018 with classes beginning in the fall and concluding in May 2019. This program is sponsored by Sooper Credit Union (Title Sponsor), Chevron (Corporate Sponsor) and The Trophy Case (Featured Sponsor). For more information or to receive an application, contact Diane Schwenke at the Chamber (diane@gjchamber.org or 970-263-2915).
For those that are considering this step, Ashley Sroufe has a piece of advice. “I highly recommend this class especially if you are not from Mesa County it will truly give you a different picture of the community you live and serve in.”
Click here to download the full version of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce March 2018 Newsletter.