Graduation Held for 2008 Leadership Bowling Green Class

Contact:
Jessica M.L. Thompson, Communications Director
270-781-3200; jessica@bgchamber.com

BOWLING GREEN, KY-The 2008 class of Leadership Bowling Green (LBG) graduated on Thursday, November 20, celebrating their completion of an eight-month leadership program that provided them insight into many aspects of their community. LBG is one of the most popular programs that the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce offers.

Don Cole, manager of contractor services for Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation, served as the 2008 LBG Class President and is very proud of what his class has accomplished. "LBG is an incredible experience. The program gives you a chance to be a part of so many different aspects of Bowling Green. Class members don't just get to meet with other community leaders; we also become even more active contributors to this community."

"2008 has been a wonderful year," said Jennifer Breiwa, program director for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, who is responsible for the LBG program. "The class participants are outgoing and innovative, and they really took an interest in all the events that we were a part of. From retreats to days in the community to a service project at Hope Harbor, the class enhanced their leadership skills while making an impact on the community."

Lisa Dunn served as the chair of the 2008 program, working with Breiwa and co-chair Jon Schubarth, manager of engineering for Warren County Water District, to coordinate the various activities and events that the class participated in. Dunn, a Human Resources generalist at U.S. Bank, is also pleased with this year's class. "When you bring this many people together--people who have consistently demonstrated enthusiasm and leadership in their careers--you experience great energy and see amazing examples of leadership. That's what LBG is about, and I've been honored to help these participants grow throughout the program."

Western Kentucky University Football Coach David Elson was the keynote speaker at Thursday's graduation, speaking about the key skills a leader must have. Additionally, Mayor Elaine Walker and Judge Executive Michael Buchanon announced a joint proclamation to name November 20 Leadership Bowling Green Day.

Graduates of the 2008 LBG class are:

Additionally, three members of the 2007 LBG Class received their diplomas: David Bolton of Edward Jones Investments; Ruth Fraser of Holland CPAs, PSC; and Matthew Keyser of ISTT, Inc.

After graduation, LBG participants are encouraged to join the Leadership Bowling Green Alumni Association (LBGAA). This organization allows alumni to continue to enhance their leadership skills and to remain involved in the Bowling Green community.

Applications for entrance into the 2009 LBG class will be available online at www.bgchamber.com beginning January 2, 2009. The application deadline will be 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2009. For more information, contact Jennifer Breiwa at 270-781-3200.

Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. As one of only 336 chambers nationwide to be accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the fourth largest chamber in Kentucky, the Chamber serves as a premier business advocate for its more than 1,300 partners. Its primary goals are to promote growth and success in the business community, reaching its small business partners and those in large industries alike. With leadership programs, governmental relations projects, educational initiatives and involvement opportunities, the Chamber aims to support the community and its neighbors in order to enhance the business climate and continue to grow the region.