Through the LeadAR program, I learned much more about the great state we live in. Getting the chance to travel around our state, and beyond, has given me a thirst for new experiences and opened my eyes to limitless possibilities. I've made several terrific friends through the program — LeadAR truly opens doors and minds.

Lisa Pennington
Class 11 - Prescott
Art instructor, National Park Community College

The LeadAR program taught me the skill of networking and the necessity of contacts in the business world.  These skills have given me the poise to walk into any situation and feel confident that I am an intergal part of the situation.  I have recently become a Certified Hospital Chaplain. I feel that LeadAR was instrumental in giving me the confidence I needed to work with people in this program.  LeadAR = success.

Stan Vlademar
Class 11 - Fort Smith
Arab Pest Control

LeadAR was the catalyst for me to grow—personally and professionally!  It gave me the skills I needed to become the person I had always wanted to be.  I was able to use the education and contacts I made during the program to make my community stronger and more viable.  No other commitment has made more impact on my life than LeadAR, and I am forever grateful to the program. 

Teresa Carver
Class 11 - Van Buren
Community leader and volunteer

LeadAR exposed me to the challenges that Arkansas faces, but at the same time, it showed how communities around the state are addressing them in different ways. The perception of Arkansas by the media is not always favorable, based on national ratings. However, rakings don't reveal how resourceful the community leaders are in their local issues. Arkansas community leaders are innovative and making progress with limited resources. Leadership is about taking responsibility and Arkansas has some great successes that are often not publicized. LeadAR was an excellent experience.

Bob Weih
Class 11 - Monticello
Professor
Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing
University of Arkansas at Monticello

The program gave me the confidence that I needed to develop leadership skills that have helped me to become more active in my state. The program taught me to see ideas from multiple perspectives before making decisions. It was always my goal to take something back to my community from each session. I believe anyone entering the LeadAR Program with an open mind and a willing spirit will find many opportunities to help his or her family, community, state and country.

Jamie Stringfellow
Class 11 - Mountain Home
Entergy Customer Service Manager

LeadAR has provided me with the ability to look past today and into tomorrow. This program has given me the tools necessary to make rational and ethical decisions crucial to my position as City Treasurer for the City of Arkadelphia. The combination of classroom experience with social networking has given me more than the run of the mill leadership training. LeadAR is an exciting hands-on learning environment dedicated to making productive leaders in Arkansas.

Glen Beedle
Class 11 - Arkadelphia
Arkadelphia City Treasurer