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Featured photo: Vision Henderson County cohorts through the years tour Blue Ridge Community College. (Photos by Rich Keen.)
HENDERSON COUNTY, NC – Blue Ridge Community College and the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce the upcoming 2025-2026 Vision Henderson County class. Vision is a premier leadership development program dedicated to cultivating informed, engaged, and community-driven leaders. The program is now inviting individuals to express interest in participation through April 30.
“As a participant in this transformative program, you will be empowered to become an engaged leader of tomorrow,” said Blue Ridge’s Director of Corporate and Customized Training Shanda Bedoian. “By gaining a deeper understanding of Henderson County’s rich history, diverse resources, and the complex opportunities and challenges we face, you will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to drive meaningful change, foster collaboration, and play a pivotal role in shaping a prosperous and sustainable future for our community.”
Since its inception in 1996, Vision Henderson County has become an esteemed program in Western North Carolina, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the county’s cultural, economic, historical, social, educational, environmental, and governmental resources. The program fosters critical thinking, enhances leadership skills, and connects participants with key civic, business, and government leaders.
Each year’s cohort embarks on a transformative journey through monthly classes spanning from September to April, following an initial orientation and retreat in August. The Vision program graduation takes place in May.
Class topics include history, government, economic development, law enforcement and emergency services, health care, manufacturing, education, environmental issues, and more.
The program is designed to develop a network of informed and committed citizens, encourage local collaboration, and equip participants with the tools to address community challenges while
Interested individuals should contact Karen Bryant at (828) 694-1779, or via email at k_bryant26@blueridge.edu, for more details. More information about Vision Henderson County is available at www.blueridge.edu/vision.