Debbie Rugen, Nurse Coordinator of the Family Birth Place at Columbia Memorial, and Carrie Waterhouse, Manager of Cairo, Mountain View, and Windham Family Care Centers, have successfully completed the Leadership Program of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce.
Dubbed Leadership Columbia County, "it is a dynamic, community-based program designed to develop informed, action-oriented leaders to meet the future challenges of our area," according to the Chamber's website.
Rugen and Waterhouse participated in the year long program that focused on professional development, leadership skills, and community service. The program seeks individuals who demonstrate commitment and interest to serve Columbia County. They are interested in new ideas, learning about the community, and team building. Then they use this experience to better serve their company and the community.
"We started last September and finished in June," said Rugen.
"Classes were one full day a month and consisted of presentations by management and motivational speakers who talked about aspects of leadership and management at large and small companies."
Rugen and Waterhouse said that there were often bus tours to various businesses around the county to acquaint participants with diverse management techniques.
Rugen said that what she learned has been put to good use.
"It has helped me in my goal to be more involved in nursing organizational issues," she said.
"It was a great experience," said Waterhouse. "It provided contacts within the business community, taught team building skills, and each month we visited different sites."
I've lived here a long time but I learned a lot about the community that I previously didn't know.
"It has helped my leadership skills. I am able to bounce ideas off of others and interact better with staff. I urge everyone to subscribe to this positive experience."
