The Leadership Batesville program, presented by Citizens Bank, prepares emerging leaders to serve our community. Through shared experiences and frequent interactions, participants engage in a nine-month curriculum inspired by the IMPACT Independence County strategic plan.

The Leadership Batesville program, presented by Citizens Bank, prepares emerging leaders to serve our community. Through shared experiences and frequent interactions, participants will engage in a nine-month curriculum inspired by IMPACT Independence County.
IMPACT is a strategic plan developed with the input of more than 2,500 area residents. This plan identifies four areas of importance for the overall growth and sustainability of Independence County: Economic Prosperity, Educational Excellence, Placemaking, and Healthy Living and well-being.
2025 Schedule
Friday, February 14: Application Deadline
Wednesday, February 26 – Thursday, February 27: Mandatory Overnight Retreat at Red Apple Inn (Heber Springs, AR)
Thursday, March 20: State Government Session (Little Rock, AR)
Tuesday, April 29: Placemaking/Healthy Living and Wellbeing
Tuesday, May 20: Leadership Development Session
Wednesday, June 11: Community Engagement and Business Expo
Thursday, August 28: Economic Development Session
Wednesday, September 24: Leadership Development Session
Thursday, October 23: Education Session
Thursday, November 20: Leadership Development Session
January 2026: Graduation at the Chamber Annual Meeting & Gala
Class participants are highly motivated individuals interested in learning, pursuing first-hand experience, and interacting with community leaders, businesses, and organizations. Upon graduation, Independence County will welcome a dynamic group fully equipped to take action and work toward a better community. Priority is given to members of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce.
Friday, February 14: Application Deadline
Wednesday, Feb 26 – Thursday, February 27: Mandatory Overnight Retreat at Red Apple Inn (Heber Springs, AR)
Thursday, March 20: State Government Session (Little Rock, AR)
Tuesday, April 29: Placemaking/Healthy Living and Wellbeing
Tuesday, May 20: Leadership Development Session
Wednesday, June 11: Community Engagement and Business Expo
Thursday, August 28: Economic Development Session
Wednesday, September 24: Leadership Development Session
Thursday, October 23: Education Session
Thursday, November 20: Leadership Development Session
January 2026: Graduation at the Chamber Annual Meeting & Gala