Bulloch County recently celebrated the graduation of its second cohort from the Management Development Program (MDP), an initiative designed to build and strengthen leadership within county government.
In partnership with the University of Georgia's Carl Vinson Institute of Government, this program equips county employees with the tools to lead effectively, fostering both personal and professional growth. With an emphasis on community service, collaborative learning, and leadership development, the program has become a vital component of Bulloch County’s ongoing commitment to excellence.
Launched in 2022, the MDP is an eight-month program that brings together employees from various departments across the county. Participants engage in 20 full-day sessions covering topics such as leadership styles, decision-making, conflict resolution, team management, and workplace culture.
This year’s graduating class of 19 employees represented a broad spectrum of Bulloch County departments, including Public Works, Emergency Medical Services, Animal Services, Finance, and 911.
County Manager Tom Couch, who oversees the program, emphasized its importance for the county’s long-term success.
“Strong communities require strong leaders,” Couch said. “This program is an investment in our workforce, preparing them to step into larger roles while ensuring continuity and excellence as seasoned staff retire. It’s not just about filling positions; it’s about building a legacy of leadership that benefits the entire community.”
The program’s emphasis on leadership development is coupled with its focus on practical skills. Participants are equipped with strategies for problem-solving, communication, and team building, all of which are essential for navigating the complexities of local government.
The training also fosters cross-departmental collaboration, bringing together employees from different areas of county operations to share ideas and experiences. This approach not only strengthens individual leadership skills but also builds stronger interdepartmental relationships, enhancing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of county government.
Community Service: Leadership in Action
One of the defining features of the MDP is its commitment to community service. Each cohort is tasked with identifying and completing projects that address local needs, giving participants the opportunity to apply their skills while making a tangible difference in the community.
This year’s graduates selected two impactful initiatives:
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The Teal House: The cohort rehabilitated the entrance, wheelchair ramp, and porch at this essential sexual assault victim assistance center, improving accessibility and creating a more welcoming environment for survivors seeking support.
- Open Hearts Community Mission: Participants built planter boxes to support sustainable gardening efforts at this mission. These garden beds will provide fresh produce and educational opportunities for residents and volunteers.
These projects were completed entirely with donated materials and volunteer labor, reflecting the graduates’ dedication to serving the community while being resourceful and cost-conscious. Leaders from The Teal House and Open Hearts Community Mission expressed their gratitude for the cohort’s efforts, underscoring the significance of their contributions.
Dal Cannady, Communications Director for the county and a member of the 2024 cohort, spoke about the importance of these projects.
"These projects reminded us why we’re here, to serve our neighbors and make a real difference,” Cannady said. “It’s not just about leadership in the workplace; it’s about leadership in the community.”
Facing Challenges Together
The program’s rigorous training pushed participants out of their comfort zones, testing their resilience and adaptability. In addition to the demands of the program itself, the 2024 cohort faced three emergency situations during the eight-month period, demonstrating their ability to lead under pressure.
Despite these challenges, the group persevered, showing remarkable commitment to their growth and development.
“This experience wasn’t easy, but it was transformative,” Cannady said. “We strengthened our skills, learned from each other, and came out of this program better equipped to serve our community.”
Participants also noted the value of connecting with colleagues from other departments, gaining a broader understanding of county operations and forming relationships that will enhance collaboration in the future. This cross-departmental approach is one of the program’s greatest strengths, making a sense of unity and shared purpose among county employees.
Acknowledging the Graduates
The 2024 MDP graduates included employees from a wide array of county departments, each bringing their unique expertise and perspective to the program:
- Amanda Anderson – Animal Services
- Howley Terrero – Bulloch County Correctional Institute (BCCI)
- Myah Freeman – BCCI
- Venus Mincey-White – Board of Commissioners
- Stephen Mixon – Code Enforcement
- Jana Shaw – 911
- Tammie Smith – 911
- Brian Hendrix – Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
- Ryan Jones – EMS
- Kristie King – Finance
- Jason Gammons – Bulloch County Fire Department (BCFD)
- Joe Carter – BCFD
- Darryl Hopkins – Buildings & Facilities
- Justin Franklin – Recreation Department
- Dal Cannady – Board of Commissioners
- Allen Ryles – Public Works
- Troy Cothren – Public Works
- Donna Johnson – Tax Commissioner’s Office
Each graduate brought something special to the program, enriching the experience for everyone involved and strengthening the county government as a whole.
Chairman Roy Thompson praised the graduates for their hard work and dedication, highlighting their contributions to the county and its citizens.
"Bulloch County has the best employees of any county, top to bottom,” Thompson said. “These graduates have proven their capability and commitment, and I hope the incoming leadership on the Board of Commissioners continues to give them the opportunities they deserve.”
The success of this year’s cohort builds on the strong foundation established by the inaugural class in 2022, which completed projects at Safe Haven and created recreational spaces for local residents. The program will continue in 2026 with its third cohort, furthering its mission of preparing county employees for leadership roles while fostering a culture of service and community engagement.
As the 2024 graduates return to their respective departments, they carry with them not only the skills and knowledge gained through the program but also a renewed commitment to serving their community. Their work exemplifies the values of leadership, teamwork, and service that are at the heart of the Management Development Program.
Congratulations to the 2024 graduates of the Bulloch County Management Development Program! Your dedication and service have left an indelible mark on your community, setting a high standard for future cohorts to follow.
Bulloch County is proud of your accomplishments and looks forward to seeing the continued impact of your leadership in the years to come.
