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JDForward

Investing in leaders.

JDForward is Jeff Davis County’s premier leadership development program for career professionals. Hosted by the Chamber, the program provides participants with a comprehensive overview of the Jeff Davis County community and its leadership.

Participants learn more about themselves and our hometown through immersive, hands-on leadership trainings, tours, sessions, and projects. The purpose of JDForward is to address the leadership deficit in Hazlehurst by encouraging early- and mid-career professionals to take a step forward and serve their community today and in the future.

The program focuses on developing awareness of community resources and challenges, enhancing leadership skills, networking with local leaders, and fostering greater community involvement through volunteerism.

Highlights include a trip to the state capitol during the legislative session to advocate for Jeff Davis County, along with other engaging field trips.

Eligibility

Open to all Chamber member employees who live or work in Jeff Davis County. Participants must be willing to attend the 10-month program, engage in sessions, and participate in project work.

Applications open in May!

Timeline

May 1

Applications Open

May 31

Deadline to Apply

July

Announcement of New JDForward Class

May

(following year)

Graduation from the Program

Class of 2026

  • Mary Susan Arnold
    Special Education Director, Jeff Davis County Schools

  • Renee Causey
    Operations Support Specialist, Bank of Hazlehurst

  • Jayme Crosby
    County Administrator, Jeff Davis County Board of Commissioners
  • Josh Horton
    Director, Jeff Davis County Recreation Department
  • Brandy Miller
    Admin Assistant & EMA Clerk, Hazlehurst-Jeff Davis County Fire and Rescue
  • Mandy Powell
    Branch Manager, Renasant Bank

  • Candice Reynolds
    Administrative Coordinator, Development Authority of Jeff Davis County

  • Bonnie Saunders
    Director of Quality & Accreditation, Jeff Davis Hospital
  • Chris Stone
    Vice President, Stone’s Machine Shop, Inc.

Thanks to Our Sponsor

This year’s program would not be possible without sponsorship from Manna Café & Eatery!