By Stephen Smoot
The Harrison County Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Harrison class had a capital time in Charleston last week. As part of their February educational session, they attended proceedings of the West Virginia State Legislature and also heard from elected officials, including their senior United States Senator.
“Leadership Harrison has been around for 25 years,” explained Marla Feree, marketing director for the Harrison County Chamber of Commerce. She added that “it’s another program that the Chamber offers to members and non-members alike.”
The purpose of the program lies in taking a select group of aspiring and inspiring individuals from the Harrison County professional community and give them opportunities to develop knowledge, experience, and, most of all, leadership skills.
“The people that attend” the sessions, Free said “not only learn to apply leadership skills, but also how to give back to the community.”
The class had a busy agenda during their excursion to the state capital. Leadership Harrison opened its day holding a 20 minute chat with State Senator Ben Queen. During their stay, they also received greetings from Delegates Laura Kimble and Keith Marple.
Next, the group sat in the House of Delegates gallery to observe some of the morning’s proceedings. Delegate Mickey Pettito recognized Leadership Harrison from the House floor.
Michael Queen, deputy chief of staff for West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner, hosted a “lunch and learn” session that included an opportunity to hear more about the role of this Board of Public Works Cabinet department.
What would a trip be without a welcome surprise? After lunch, US Senator Joe Manchin connected with Leadership Harrison to provide an update of developments in the nation’s capital.
The group concluded the day with an update from Mitch Carmichael, state secretary of economic development and a tour of the West Virginia State Museum.
Sessions of Leadership Harrison last from September through May. Each monthly session focuses on a different aspect of applied leadership in a variety of fields and circumstances. All take place somewhere in Harrison County except for February, which is reserved for the State Capitol trip. In May, classes graduate at the annual dinner. Those who wish to participate can apply for consideration between July 1 and July 30.