Page 57 - 2025 Van Buren Chamber Community Profile

THE CHAMBER

Leadership Crawford County

Alumni Network

Since its establishment in 1999, in our area, and they are really excited
Leadership Crawford County (LCC) has about being able to catch up on those,”
helped prepare citizens to step into Thompson noted. “These also give us
influential and impactful roles within something more to discuss when looking
the county. The program continues to at the overall region.”
bring local individuals together who The LCC Alumni Network began with
have demonstrated leadership talent 37 alumni, representing nearly half of
and characteristics, providing them with the previous classes. “We’re continuing
a deeper knowledge of different facets to promote it to the alumni, but are also
of business, industry, government, and stressing it to the current class in hopes
education in Crawford County. they will be active starting right after they
In celebration of LCC’s 25th class, graduate,” said Thompson.
the organization decided to mark the For more information about Leadership
occasion by honoring founding Director Crawford County:
Cathy Gifford. LCC presented her with • visit www.VanBurenChamber.org Cathy Gifford, founding Director of
an Honorary Alumni certificate at the • Leadership Crawford County Leadership Crawford County (LCC), receives an
Chamber’s Annual Meeting in June, and Pat Powell, (479) 474-2761, ext. 204 Honorary Alumni certificate from current Director
Gifford was truly appreciative. • LCC Alumni Network Pat Powell in recognition of the 25th anniversary
“It was a great idea at the beginning, Phyllis Thompson, (479) 474-2761, ext. 202 of LCC. Photo courtesy The Chamber
and I’m so glad it has grown to what it is
today,” Gifford said upon receiving the
recognition of her efforts. “Thank you
from the bottom of my heart.” VAN BUREN.
“It has been a great course for people
who were interested in connecting Five Star Community Growth.
with others, identifying needs and
having a positive impact on the future
of our region,” said Phyllis Thompson,
Director of Membership at the Van Buren
Chamber, and 2022 LCC graduate. “What
was missing was a way to stay connected
to other participants once the course was
completed.”
Thompson and a group of her fellow
alumni continued discussions about how
to develop a program that would keep
past participants engaged, and also
benefit new LCC participants and the
community. Those discussions led to the
formation of the new Leadership Crawford
County Alumni Network in 2023. The
group meets quarterly, and gatherings
include networking and social events,
volunteer opportunities, and business or
facility tours. Serving Van Buren
“We have found that people who were for more than 50 years!
early year graduates have missed out on
tours of some of the newer operations

vanburenchamber.org Van Buren Chamber 2025 Community Profile 57