HR1374: HR1374 Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce; significant contributions to economic prosperity, business advocacy, and the cultivation of local talent through the Leadership Macon program; commend

26 LC 129 1144 House Resolution 1374 By: Representatives Herring of the 145th, Jones of the 143rd, Griffin of the 149th, Paris of the 142nd, and Washburn of the 144th A RESOLUTION Commending the efforts of the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce for its significant1 contributions to economic prosperity, business advocacy, and the cultivation of local talent2 through the Leadership Macon program; and for other purposes.3 WHEREAS, the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce has served as the organized voice4 of the Macon-Bibb business community since 1861, championing a mission to provide the5 resources and support necessary to advance business success and regional economic vitality;6 and7 WHEREAS, the Chamber represents a diverse network of nearly 800 investors, ranging from8 small local enterprises to major global industries, all united under the vision of making9 Macon-Bibb the premier community for business in the State of Georgia; and10 WHEREAS, since its inception in 1979, the Leadership Macon prog ram has stood as a11 flagship initiative of the Chamber, dedicated to identifying an d training a diverse network12 of emerging and established leaders to address the community's most pressing challenges;13 and14 H. R. 1374 - 1 - 26 LC 129 1144 WHEREAS, the Leadership Macon program provides a transformative nine-month15 experience, beginning with a dedicated retreat to foster trust and relationship-building among16 a cohort of professionals representing every sector of the local economy; and17 WHEREAS, through monthly immersive class days, participants gain deep insights into the18 essential pillars of the region, including local government, healthcare, education, agriculture,19 housing, and economic development, ensuring they are well-infor med and ready to serve;20 and21 WHEREAS, the Chamber further advances the region's growth through strategic initiatives22 such as "Choose Macon," workforce development partnerships, and unwavering advocacy23 for critical community assets like the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park and Robins24 Air Force Base; and25 WHEREAS, the organization's enduring impact is a direct result of the collaborative spirit26 of its Board of Directors and staff, who work tirelessly to lev erage local investment into27 tangible prosperity for all citizens of the Macon-Bibb region; and28 WHEREAS, the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce continues to lead with core values29 of integrity, inclusivity, and fiscal responsibility, ensuring that as the community grows, its30 leadership remains visionary, connected, and engaged.31 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that32 the members of this body commend the Greater Macon Chamber of C ommerce for its33 155-year legacy of excellence, its commitment to economic growt h, and its vital role in34 preparing the next generation of leaders through Leadership Macon.35 H. R. 1374 - 2 - 26 LC 129 1144 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that recognition is given to President a nd CEO Jessica36 Walden, the Chamber Board of Directors, and the Leadership Maco n Advisory Board for37 their dedication, vision, and tireless service to the people an d businesses of Macon-Bibb38 County.39 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized40 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the41 Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce.42 H. R. 1374 - 3 -