The Moore County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 34th graduating class of the Moore County Leadership Institute (MCLI). This is an exclusive leadership program hosted by the Chamber of Commerce and has graduated over 650 participants since inception.

MCLI provides participants the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally via

programs with community leaders and experts. Participants learn about local history, business

challenges, civic issues and community involvement as well as receive targeted leadership

development training. 

Ultimately, these individuals are well rounded, capable leaders with a deeper understanding of civic responsibility. Upon graduation, they are encouraged to serve in the community in a volunteer capacity and to inspire others in their respective workplaces by being transformational leaders.

This year two group projects were completed benefiting Southern Pines Parks and Recreation

and Cameron Boys Camp. As part of the course requirements, a community project and attendance of a government meeting are required to graduate. 

“I would never willingly attend a government meeting; however, this forced me to attend, and it was the most impactful part of the year,” claimed Jonah Saunders, of Provision Ace Hardware, in a press release. 

MCLI Class of 2023

Kenia Mills, Pinehurst, LLC

Francesca Carter, Pinehurst, LLC

Phil McNutt, Donovan & Bank Foundation

Jonah Saunders, Southern Pines Ace Operations Co.

Rachel Drew, The Honor Foundation

Bonnie Archibald, Partners for Children & Families

Mary Howard, Town of Southern Pines

Jeremy Sparrow              

Jessica Roth, Town of Southern Pines

Sandee Gronowski, First Citizens Bank - Pinehurst

Bill Hanes, Donovan & Bank Foundation

Jesse Erikson, Donovan & Bank Foundation

Ernest Samuel, FirstHealth - Moore Regional Hospital

Vijay Mohanani, Pinehurst Medical Clinic, Inc.

Kristopher Kendall, RSL Ventures Inc.

“Effective leaders are open-minded and willing to strive to move forward for a brighter

future. These graduates took the time to understand the dynamics of effective leadership and

decision making,” said Linda Parsons, President, and CEO of the Moore County Chamber of

Commerce, in a press release. “Participants studied over an 11 th month period our community infrastructure, analyzed their own individual leadership styles, and further developed their communication skills. We are proud of this class and the accomplishments that they have all achieved.”

For those interested in applying to be a part of the next MCLI Class, more information can be found https://www.moorecountychamber.com/mcli/.

Applications are now being accepted for the January 2024 class.