SAFFORD — Vance Bryce, executive director of the Graham County Chamber of Commerce, told Cohort 20, “There is no more they; there is only we.”
He explained to the group being inducted into Gila Valley Leadership, that it’s now up to them to make the changes and improvements they want, not look for someone else to do it.
Eleven members of the cohort were inducted during a ceremony Thursday, June 24, at OneAZ Credit Union.
Eric Bejarano, past president of Gila Valley Leadership and currently city manager for Safford, asked the inductees four questions: What does leadership mean to you, what is important in leadership , why does leadership matter, and what kind of leader do you want to be.
“Leadership is personal; leadership is not about a title, it’s not a position, it’s not a corner office, it’s not a seat on a board or a nameplate on a door; leadership is influence,” Bejarano said. “It is the ability to positively impact the lives of others.”
Other speakers included outgoing president Tommy Snodderly and incoming president Jennifer Stauffer.
The Chamber of Commerce is currently accepting applications for Cohort 21. Leadership is described as a program that will “enhance . . . professionalism (and) expand networks,” and is suitable for those new to the areas as well those whose families have lived in the Gila Valley for generations.
Applications are due by July 9. Click here to apply.
Gila Valley Leadership Cohort 20
- Ruben Baca
- Taylor Banks
- Lynda Bennett
- Cade Bryce
- Mariette Dunn
- Karen Fox
- Michael E. Moreno
- Lexy Newell
- Mayra Parra
- Megan Robbins
- Joel Robinson
