Pictured (left to right) are Dr. Kirk Fontenot, Adam Dansby and Tiffany Sandifer.
Three Bossier Parish Community College staff and faculty members have completed the year-long Greater Shreveport Leadership Program through the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce, further strengthening the college’s commitment to regional leadership, workforce development and community engagement.
Graduates include Tiffany Sandifer, Director of Student Life; Adam Dansby, Director of Business Operations–Finance; and Dr. Kirk Fontenot, Associate Professor of English (Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences). The program brings together emerging and established leaders from across Northwest Louisiana for an in-depth exploration of the region’s economy, industries, nonprofit organizations and civic priorities.
"Participating in Shreveport Leadership this year has been an incredible experience,” Dansby said. “I'm so grateful for the opportunity to connect with fellow community leaders and gain deeper insight into our area's remarkable industries, nonprofits, and support systems. This journey makes my work at BPCC even more meaningful as we continue to strengthen our region by equipping our students with the best educational opportunities and workforce training."
Throughout the year, participants engaged in tours, presentations and site visits that showcased the assets and industries that strengthen the Shreveport-Bossier region. Sandifer served as project chair for the class’ community betterment initiative, helping lead efforts to support Providence House. The class raised more than $11,000 for the organization through a fun and unique fundraiser held in early November.
“Serving as the project chair was an honor and a powerful reminder of what’s possible when leaders come together for a shared purpose,” Sandifer said. “This project was successful because of the diverse strengths, perspectives and shared commitment of our entire team, and it was truly a privilege to collaborate with such a talented group of individuals and make a meaningful impact in our community.”
Founded in 1977, the Greater Shreveport Leadership Program is an engaging, in-depth initiative of the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce designed to develop community-minded business and civic leaders. The year-long interactive program provides participants with a behind-the-scenes look at the issues that impact the region’s economy and quality of life.
The program is available to a limited number of participants each year and features day-long monthly sessions that culminate in the completion of a community betterment project. Participants meet once each month and travel as a group to various locations throughout the community, working collectively to select and complete a service project benefiting a nonprofit organization or cause. Participation is open to citizens who reside in and/or do business in Northwest Louisiana.
BPCC has a strong history of involvement in the Greater Shreveport Leadership Program, with many employees completing the program in previous years. The College was once again well represented in this year’s class.
“Investing in leadership development is essential to the long-term success of both our institution and our region,” Chancellor Dr. Rick Bateman Jr. said. “We commend our faculty and staff for their commitment to professional growth and community leadership.”