David Biddix
info@mitchellcountync.gov
In February, Mitchell County Commissioner Chair Harley Masters successfully completed the Advanced Leadership Corps (ALC) training offered annually to select local elected officials by the School of Government at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
ALC is an intensive leadership development program designed by the School’s Center for Public Leadership and Governance. The weeklong residential program is a dynamic experience that helps participants learn about their own leadership styles, inspire others to work toward a shared vision, and gain insights into how to work together to build better relationships and achieve far-reaching results. More than 200 local elected leaders from across North Carolina have completed this selective program since its inception in 2013.
“I am honored to be one of the 24 elected officials across the state of North Carolina to be chosen to participate in this leadership program this year,” said Commissioner Masters. “I am also proud to be the only person from Mitchell County to have ever completed this program. I met some wonderful people and made some great connections across the state.”
Masters described how ALC training is beneficial.
“This program is designed to make you aware of your own leadership behaviors and learn from others to become a better leader for your community,” said Masters. “Taking the time to look at yourself and focus on areas that could use some improvement takes courage, but ultimately it makes you a more effective leader.”
County Manager Allen Cook noted how the training Masters completed is valuable.
“The ALC leadership training provides those who are selected with management skills geared specifically towards public leadership,” said Cook. “In addition to the valuable training, Commissioner Masters is networking with leaders from around the state and gaining insight towards finding solutions to issues that impact local government.”
Financial support from the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) and Empower Retirement allows elected officials from across the state to attend the ALC.