The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners convened on June 26, 2025, for a Committee of the Whole meeting, featuring a significant presentation from Leadership DeKalb. Executive Director Sharra Sanders, accompanied by program manager Debbie Poe and other alumni, provided an overview of the organization's recent activities and future plans.

Leadership DeKalb, established in 1986, has grown to include over 1,600 alumni from various sectors within the county. Sanders highlighted the organization's commitment to fostering leadership through community engagement and educational opportunities. She noted the successful return to in-person programming after the pandemic and the evolution of their initiatives to better serve the community.

The presentation detailed several key accomplishments, including the revival of the "Eggs and Issues" sessions, candidate forums for local elections, and partnerships with various community organizations. Leadership DeKalb has also focused on enhancing alumni engagement through training sessions and social events, such as their annual dinner, which has seen increased attendance.

Looking ahead, Sanders outlined plans for strategic growth, including diversifying revenue streams and revising organizational bylaws. The upcoming class of 2026 is expected to be larger, with a record number of applications, reflecting the program's growing popularity. Changes to the program structure were also discussed, including new focus areas such as infrastructure and quality of life, aimed at addressing pressing community issues.

Sanders concluded by acknowledging the financial challenges faced by the organization and expressed gratitude for the county's ongoing support. She emphasized the importance of strong leadership in strengthening DeKalb County and invited further discussions with commissioners to explore future collaboration and support.

The meeting underscored Leadership DeKalb's pivotal role in community development and the importance of continued investment in local leadership initiatives.