This week, we celebrated Head of the Class and two Ribbon Cuttings, events that highlighted our shared successes and the power of morale. At each event, we heard from a variety of community leaders whose words carried a key theme: the importance of belonging and purpose.
The Head of the Class presentation at J. Glenn Edwards Elementary celebrated the school’s recent success. As stated by students and staff alike during the award ceremony, the lofty goal of competing against other Lee County elementary schools to achieve the most academic growth was a collaborative effort. The school decided on a collective purpose and propelled each other to achieve it through positivity and encouragement.
We all seek purpose. How can we use our influence to foster an environment where people feel inspired? Leading with a good attitude is a great place to start. When we cultivate positivity within our businesses and organizations, we build a culture of gratitude that strengthens our entire community. One speaker, a 5th grade student leader, remarked that her time at the school was special because she had teachers and administrators who immediately sought her out and made her feel special. This positivity created a chain reaction, causing her to choose to become a student leader to give back to the school that made her who she was. Alignment—with purpose, our workforce, and our community—creates a thriving environment where everyone benefits. The key to achieving such goals is working together and choosing kindness, as made evident by J. Glenn Edwards Elementary.
The Head of Class event centered on community—its needs, aspirations, and challenges. While the answers aren’t always simple, one thing is clear: we want to help, and we can make a difference. Together, we can succeed by listening to each other’s ideas and making them happen.
At the Chamber, we call ourselves the Voice of the Community, but that voice exists because of you —our members and supporters. Together, we amplify our impact. I invite you, our citizens and business owners, to join us at an upcoming Chamber event. Bring a friend. Let’s build something great—together. Thank you to the team at J. Glenn Edwards for leading the charge- we have much to learn from you!
Susan Gomez, Chamber Director