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. 

People working together in a spirit of cooperation is what makes strong communities. By participating in the 2012 Lake Michigan College Community Leadership Academy, you can join the growing list of leaders who are strengthening Michigan's Great Southwest.

The Academy focuses on topics relevant to our region. Experts in communication & leadership skills, diversity, economic development, education & workforce development, and community issues will lead half-day intensive sessions that will provide unique insight to Academy participants.

Participants will walk away with a broad understanding of the issues facing our region, increased understanding of their leadership style and an expanded network of colleagues and resources. They will be motivated and ready to apply their new-found knowledge to their organization and the community.

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

The following are graduates of the 2011 class:

• Michelle Barnes, Quality Management Supervisor, Region IV Area Agency on Aging
• Stacy Bower, Business Services Coordinator, Michigan Works!
• Lilia Gallardo, Site Manager, Michigan Works! Dowagiac
• Nick Gillespie, Sr., Government Relations Specialist, Whirlpool Corporation
• Erin Hudson, Executive Director, Harbor Habitat for Humanity
• John Hulsebus, BI/Database Analyst, Lake Michigan College
• Ashley Knight, Court Referral Coordinator, Volunteer Center of SW Michigan
• Dave Lefor, Communications Consultate, AEP
• Sue Lister, Global Communications, Whirlpool Corporation
• Kristine Madden, Reactor Engineer, Entergy
• Christopher Moffat, Director Philanthropic Resource, Lakeland Healthcare
• Renee Parnell, BSM-Healthcare/CBSP, Michigan Works!
• Joshua Pratt, Small Business Banker, Fifth Third Bank
• Andrea Grabemeyer Pries, Business Director, Heartland Human Care Services
• Cindy Reuss, Director Enrollment Management, Lake Michigan College
• Alvin Smith, Director, Reclaiming, Equipping and Directing Youth (R.E.A.D.Y.)
• Warren Washington, Executive Director, Child & Family Services of SWMI, Inc.
• Amanda Williamson, Great Start Collaborative Director, United Way of SWMI
• Susan Withrow, Campaign Manager, United Way of SWMI