For Immediate Release:
April 11, 2025
 
For Media Inquiries:
Bill Holmes, Senior Director of Communications
bholmes@ncruralcenter.org | (c) 919.621-5060
 
 
 
Local Resident Jana Walding Graduates from Leadership Development Program
 
 
RALEIGH, NC— Jana Walding Graduates from NC Rural Center’s Homegrown Leaders Program
 
Jana Walding of the Moore County Chamber of Commerce is a recent graduate of the NC Rural Center’s Homegrown Leaders program, a dynamic three-day training initiative focused on regional leadership and community economic development. Designed to cultivate and support motivated individuals dedicated to regional collaboration, the program brought together a diverse group of leaders from across Central North Carolina.
 
Held in Albemarle from April 8–10, the training included 23 participants representing local government, healthcare, nonprofit organizations, faith-based communities, and other key sectors. Upon completion, each graduate received a certificate recognizing their commitment to leadership and community growth.
 
“Through Homegrown Leaders, we equip and empower rural leaders to have a greater impact on regional economic development,” said Olaunda Green, the Rural Center’s Director of Leadership Training. “Their vision, determination, and deep-rooted connection to their communities inspire them to help shape the future of their regions and the next generation of rural leaders.”
 
Rural Center President and CEO Patrick Woodie added, “Leadership development is at the core of our mission. Now more than ever, it’s essential that our leaders are prepared with the skills and tools needed to drive growth and innovation. We look forward to seeing the positive impact our Homegrown Leaders graduates will make in their communities and beyond.”
 
For more information about Homegrown Leaders, visit https://www.ncruralcenter.org/homegrown-leaders/.
 
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About the NC Rural Center
The NC Rural Center has worked since 1987 to develop, promote, and implement sound economic strategies to improve the quality of life of rural North Carolinians. The Rural Center serves the state's 78 rural counties with a special focus on people with low-to-moderate incomes and communities with limited resources. To learn more about how the NC Rural Center is developing and supporting rural leaders across the state, visit ncruralcenter.org.