The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Batesville class visited the Capitol Monday to learn more about state government and state-wide organizations. Ozark Mountain Poultry sponsored the Introduction to State Government session.
“Introducing the Leadership Batesville class to our elected officials at the state level and state-wide partners is a valuable experience for the leaders of our community,” said Crystal Johnson, CEO of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce.
Participants started their day in Little Rock with a Capitol tour led by State Representative Stu Smith. Smith serves on the Joint Committee on Public Retirement and Social Security Programs, the Legislative Joint Auditing Committee, the House Education Committee, and the House Aging, Children and Youth, Legislative & Military Affairs Committee.
The next stop was to the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce. Participants visited with Kenny Hall, Executive Vice President and Chief Lobbyist. Hall represents positions on enhancing the quality of the business climate in Arkansas before selected government entities, including the legislature, the governor’s office, and various state agencies, committees, and boards.
Lastly, participants met with James Sturch, Arkansas State Senator and High School Social Studies Teacher. Sturch is the chair of the Legislative Joint Auditing-Educational Institutions Committee, Vice-Chair of the Senate Rules Committee, a member of the Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace Oversight, Game and Fish/State Police, and Lottery Oversight
subcommittees. Sturch recounted his early life in Independence County and the experiences that led him to a life of public service.
“Having the opportunity to hear from our local elected officials was a real treat! We have wonderful people representing our community at the Capitol, and I, for one, am thankful to see those who come from an education background using their platform to improve schools across the state.” said Megan Renihan, Batesville School District Communications Coordinator.
About Leadership Batesville: Leadership Batesvilles prepares emerging leaders to serve our community. Through shared experiences and frequent interactions, participants engage in a nine-month curriculum inspired by IMPACT Independence County—a strategic plan developed by hundreds of Independence County residents.
About The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce: The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce is the leading voice of business in Independence County, providing advocacy, promotion, and resources for chamber members. The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce sets the standard for excellence in member service, community collaboration, business growth, and achieving a high quality of life in the Batesville area.
