Alumni Comments
Class 1 (1984-1986)

With the explosion of knowledge in the 20th century and the further globalization of our economy in the 21st century, obtaining a college education is no longer the climax of our educational experience but only one step along the way.  Continuing education is a staple for most jobs and for all professions.  Lifelong learning is required for our people to be competitive in the present world environment.  My experience as a member of the first LeadAR class created a bridge between my profession as a rural Arkansas lawyer and the major issues facing Arkansas through exposure and interaction with the leaders from the agriculture, education, technology, manufacturing, and economic development sectors of our state.  In addition, LeadAR scheduled meetings and seminars with elected officials of our state, the national government and with officials of foreign governments.  A few years later, I would work with most of these people during my legislative career.  A culmination of the LeadAR experience involves policy meetings and policy discussions with national policy makers as well international policy makers.  The international trip with fellow LeadAR students is indeed the experience of a lifetime.  The LeadAR program is, in my opinion, equivalent to completing a masters’ degree program at a major university.  I would recommend that all highly-motivated individuals who seek to improve their knowledge and marketable skills through a structured program of study make contact with elected officials and Arkansas leaders apply for this program.  You will be glad you did.

Herschel Cleveland
Class 1 - Little Rock
Former Speaker of the House
Arkansas General Assembly

I was privileged to be in the first class of LeadAR. As a young professional woman, it was very beneficial for me to learn more about what was happening in my state, but equally important to learn more about how to think strategically and present myself with assurance. I discovered the power of diverse opinions in formulating creative solutions to difficult problems, and I will always value the friendship of the men and women in my class.  It was a privilege to spend time with such strong, capable leaders.  After I left Arkansas, I continued to use the skills I honed in LeadAR, and I recommend it highly to anyone serious about making a difference in their community, their state and their country.

Sherry Welch
Class 1
President
St. Agnes Foundation
Baltimore, MD

Words cannot quantify the positive impact the LeadAR program continues to have on me.  LeadAR's network of trained community leaders helped me in ways I never imagined.  My career changed at the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department when one day I was called upon to coordinate a "Total Quality Management" effort for the Planning and Research Division.  The Division's Chief and Assistant offered me the opportunity simply, as they put it, "We know about your LeadAR training"!  Their knowledge of the LeadAR program came from a graduate of Class 4, Randy Laverty (Current State Senator), who had trained the Arkansas Grape Growers Association as part of the TCOC (Community based leadership training) Program.  All I did was put on my resume that I was a graduate of Class 1 LeadAR...enough said.

Don McMillen
Class 1 - Conway
Federal Transportation Administration Grants Officer
Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department

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