The future of our community lies in the strength of our leaders.  To develop a network of leaders for the future our region, Cornerstone Chamber of Commerce continues to team up with Lake Michigan College, United Way of Southwest Michigan, Berrien Community Foundation, and the Whirlpool Foundation to present the Community Leadership Academy.

Twenty-two (22) graduates were honored in May of this year after completing the required course work and engaging with the community.  They represent a variety of businesses and non-profit organizations that are at the forefront of fostering positive change in Michigan's Great Southwest. 

During the 11-week academy, participants increased skills and knowledge as they learned from today's leaders about the issues and opportunities that face our region's future.

Confidence runs high that these sixteen graduates will serve our community well. 

The following are graduates of the 2008 Class:

• Dorris Akers -- Executive Director of Water Street GlassWorks in Benton Harbor
• Fred R. Boothby -- Business Banker at 1st Source Bank
• Nancy Buss -- CFO for Community Hospital in Watervliet
• Taresha Coleman -- Regional Health Care Initiataive Coordinator for Michigan Works! Berrien-Cass-Van Buren Counties
• Aaron Cox -- Finance & Development Director for the Benton Harbor Salvation Army
• Lorraine Day -- Assistant Director of Operations and Site Manager for Michigan Works!  Berrien-Cass-Van Buren Counties
• Desiree Dunomes -- Career Developer for Michigan Works!  Berrien-Cass-Van Buren Counties
• Rebecca Faultersack -- Director of Administrative Services for Hospice at Home
• William E. Freier -- Safety Manager and Mechanical Repairs Supervisor for Vail Rubber Works in St. Joseph
• Alex Gates -- Director & Curator for the North Berrien Historical Museum
• David Johnson -- Pressroom Manager for IPC Print Services in St. Joseph
• Michael A. Kinney -- Financial Advisor for Kinney Wealth Advisors
• Jazmine N. Kyles -- Branch Supervisor for Chemical Bank in Niles
• Christopher P. Laurent -- Director of Development for Harbor Habitat for Humanity
• Salvatore Mantione -- Manager of Diagnostic Imaging for Lakeland HealthCare's Center for Out Patient Services in St. Joseph
• Derek N. Perry -- Director of Public Services for the City of St. Joseph
• John Selmon -- Executive Dean of Student Services for Lake Michigan College
• Jeanne M. Surch -- Unit Director for the Boys and Girls Club of Benton Harbor
• Jennifer Swingler -- Employment Placement Coordinator for the Heartland Alliance at The Opportunity Center in Benton Harbor
• Tiffany Ventress -- Executive Administrative Assistant for the City of Benton Harbor
• Daniel E. Wassenhove -- Director of Finance for Hospice at Home, Inc.
• Megan Yore -- Director of Marketing for Lakeland HealthCare