"Leadership Shelby County is an outstanding gathering of government, business, civic, and community leaders who take a comprehensive look at our great county and what it takes to make it operate, grow, and prosper. Today’s leader must recognize the far-reaching effects their decisions have on the many aspects of life. Without the ability to understand the importance of networking among the judicial system, local and county governments, educational system, healthcare providers, social service agencies, and business contacts, an effective leader is not capable of making informed decisions. LSC provides the means necessary to develop and build upon these relationships in order to enhance the lives of the citizens of Shelby County."

Chris Curry
Shelby County Sheriff
Class of 2001

"The Leadership Shelby County Program provides participants with unique opportunities to develop leadership skills, establish relationships and learn more about our local communities. This program is a must for anyone who feels inspired to help "make a difference" in Shelby County."

James Dedes
Executive Director
Shelby County Economic & Industrial Development Authority
Class of 1997

"Leadership Shelby County is an outstanding career enhancer.  The program gives you an opportunity to expand your leadership and team-building skills on multiple levels.  Formally, the program enhances your skills through structured activities which, not only help you understand yourself as a leader, but educate you about Shelby County at the same time.  Informally, simply being in the presence of other program participants, learning from their experiences and gaining insight on how they manage situations was an invaluable opportunity.  I appreciate the relationships that I now have and continue to build with community and business leaders as a direct result of my participation in Leadership Shelby County."  

Terry Smiley
Operations Manager - Birmingham Division Alagasco
Class of 2009

"Leadership Shelby was a wonderful experience for me. My class was very special because the first day we met was on September 11, 2001. Sharing that experience together gave us a special bond that remains with us today. The network of Leadership Shelby graduates has been truly amazing. Everyone is always there in support of each other and is focused on the common goal to build for the future of Shelby County."

Randy Fuller
Superintendent, Shelby County Schools
Class of 2002

"Participating in Leadership Shelby County was an awesome opportunity to engage in greater individual and group action to help contribute to the betterment of our community. I enjoyed meeting other participants from various sectors of the community (education, business, law, social services, government, etc.)."

Jennifer Trammell
President/CEO, Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
Class of 1998

"I was selected for Leadership Shelby County before I was elected to the State Legislature. I can honestly say that participating in the Leadership program provided me with background information and in-depth knowledge of our community which has helped me serve my constituency. This program truly defines the entire Shelby County community today and makes me feel like I am a part of its growing process. One of the most inspiring moments for me in Leadership Shelby County was the opening retreat when I was put in the position of working with other leaders in our community who I now deal with on a day-to-day basis. It was funny at the time because many of these people I had never met and now depend on every day for cooperation on numerous projects throughout the community. The future does not always disclose with whom who we will work and upon whom we will come to depend; the Leadership Shelby County program prepares us for these opportunities."

Cam Ward
Alabama State Representative 49th District
Class of 2002

"Leadership Shelby County is a level 101 course on your way to a master's degree in the inner-workings of Shelby County. It involves every aspect from education and economic development to current issues and any possible response. You get the opportunity to meet the people and understand the processes that work to make Shelby County a great place to live. "

Lindsey Allison
Shelby County Commisioner
Class of 1997

"There are great rewards for the Leadership Shelby County participant. First, even if you think you know all about Shelby County, you will learn something new. Second, you will make wonderful new friends who will enrich your life. But the real beauty of Leadership is the contributions it makes to Shelby County. By bringing together talented people from many walks of life and putting them to work on projects that benefit the people of our county, each class of Leadership leaves a lasting legacy. For example, my class developed a program for career development of high school students who will not go to college; a mental health court to keep mentally ill persons charged with lesser crimes out of jail and in treatment; and a ready-to-use curriculum for tenth grade health classes addressing teenage obesity. All of these projects will improve the lives of our citizens for years to come. I am proud to be a part of this outstanding organization."

Jim Fuhrmeister
Judge of Probate, Shelby County
Class of 2010