Thompson Named to Environmental Leadership Program

Dr. Ben Thompson, Vice President for Economic Development at Ogeechee Technical College, has been named among thirty-three leaders from agriculture, forestry, business, education, environmental organizations, government, and civic groups for the sixth class of the Institute for Georgia Environmental Leadership (IGEL).  The program has created a diverse and better informed network of environmental leaders who will help resolve Georgia’s environmental challenges.

“The 2007 class has joined the ranks of the 155 leaders from across the state who have previously completed the program since its inception in 2001.” said Ross King, Chair of IGEL and also Deputy Director of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia.  “IGEL is rapidly developing a strong network of key decision makers who are leaving their imprint on the development of state and local environmental public policy.  The consensus building skill sets reinforced at IGEL programs has, and will continue to, lead towards a stronger sense of the key importance of collaboration in environmental decision making,” he said.

The program is facilitated by faculty at the Fanning Institute at the University of Georgia. "These participants are already leaders and experts in their own fields.  IGEL provides them with an opportunity to explore the role of their leadership skills and expertise across boundaries to address complex issues in the state," said Rob Williams, Fanning Institute, University of Georgia who facilitates the Institute.

IGEL participants attend four sessions held in different locations throughout the state. Nominations are now being accepted for the Class of 2008.

Contact: Barry Turner
Executive Director of Public Relations
Phone: (912) 688-6958
Email: bturner@ogeecheetech.edu