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Column: What is Delta Force Leadership Program?

ESCANABA — In 1624, a London Scholar and Poet named John Donne put his quill pen to paper and scribbled the phrase, “No man is an island.” Nearly four hundred years later and these five words still find a place in our vocabulary today. In a more literal sense, the Upper Peninsula can often feel like an island with much of its borders touching water. But what does this phrase mean for our communities in the Upper Peninsula looking to thrive and flourish?

The Delta County Chamber of Commerce developed the Delta Force Leadership Program to connect students who have displayed a strong tendency toward civic involvement with leaders in our community. Delta Force believes that successful leaders cannot stand alone, and one single person cannot address the strengths and challenges of living in the Upper Peninsula. This critical program consists of 10 individual day-long classes throughout the year. The sessions focus on several essential aspects that make up a community, from health and human services to education, government, and much more. The classroom setting is extremely hands-on and gives students an opportunity to network and learn from many of the community-leader facilitators and speakers.

This leadership program has been a part of the community since 2003 and has graduated hundreds of students who have emerged and grown into important leadership roles in our community. As a new team member of the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, I am excited to be a part of the 2021 class of Delta Force. The first class of this year was held on April 22, and the focus of the day was on Economic Development. As we heard from several speakers whose organizations and programs serve our economy and our area businesses, I couldn’t help but recognize how important synergy is to our economic health. Several speakers also emphasized the importance of passing the baton on to new leaders that will continue to help improve this beautiful place we call home.

Delta Force seeks to create an environment of inclusion and ownership to promote positive change. The Chamber recognizes that “no man is an island” and works to share its vision for programs like Delta Force and many meaningful events that enhance Delta County. The Delta County Chamber of Commerce has taken a leadership role in our area’s lifestyle, business support, and community promotion for over 100 years. The Chamber is extremely proud to be a part of a program that helps build community leadership and is very happy to see the program back in session.

We are 100 years of better together.

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By: Baylie Bullington is communications officer at the Delta County Commerce Center

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