REGIONAL LEADERS FORUM

There is story, about a father trying to instill in his children the values of teamwork and cooperation. In the story he gives each child two sticks and asks them to take the first stick and break it, which they all easily accomplish. He then asks each child to pass the remaining sticks to him, and gathers them into a bundle. Then the father passes the bundle to each child and asks the child to break the bundle, which none could accomplish. This simple illustration is a good way of explaining why the Regional Leaders Forum was developed.

The Regional Leaders Forum (RLF) is a program developed by Texas A&M University – Kingsville, Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi, and The Texas A&M University System. Through the program’s one-year commitment of monthly meetings, leaders from a 12-county area gather to develop a shared vision of the region. Those who take part work with existing skills and develop new ones that will help facilitate economic growth in their regions. Participants are given the opportunity to build relationships based on trust, understanding and a common goal of regional success.

The application process is underway for the 2003-2004 RLF class. Eligible participants are identified and established community leaders. They must be in a position of authority, be open to regional dialogue, and live or have a vital interest in the region. Potential participants should also have access to resources that can enhance the region, and have a history of contributions to public service.

The selection criteria for participants of RLF are stringent, and focuses heavily on community involvement. RLF accepts inpiduals that represent a cross section of the region including business, the professions, education, government, arts, clergy, service and community organizations and various ethnic/minority, age and gender groups. The program also searches for participants who have demonstrated leadership and sincere commitment, motivation and interest to serve the region. The final selection criterion requires a prospective participant of RLF meet the commitment to complete the RLF program with the full support of the corporation or organizations they represent.

Those interested in participating in this year’s RLF should submit a completed application by July 31, 2002. For information and guidance concerning Regional Leaders Forum and/or completing or obtaining an application, contact Carol Scott, program administrator, at Kailo Communications Studio, by phone at 361-884-8890, or via E-mail at cascott@kailocs.com.