The Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Parents for Public Schools of Pitt County and Pitt County Schools, recently hosted the 4th Annual Education Network Luncheon. The lunch brings public school educators and business leaders together to meet and network for increased community partnership.
Les Still, WCTI’s meteorologist, emceed the event and spoke of his passion for community involvement and teaching meteorology. He invited educators across the county to call on him for in-class lessons and demonstrations on weather. Other speakers included PCS Superintendent Dr. Ethan Lenker, Pitt County Educational Foundation Chairman Jim Hopf, Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce Chairman Bennie Hardy, and Parents for Public Schools of Pitt County Executive Director, Kylene Dibble.
This year two individuals were honored as keynote speakers: Dr. Andy Herdman, Vice President of Human Resources at Mayne Pharma and Allison Setser, Principal of Sam D. Bundy and HB Sugg Elementary. Mr. Herdman discussed the importance of leadership in both education and business. The number one motivating factor in individual success, according to Herdman, is the hope of something better, and noted the critical job that educators play as “planters of hope” in the hearts of their students. Ms. Setser presented the idea that increasingly the role of a school principal is similar to that of a business CEO. The veteran administrator shared with the audience six elements required for success in both education and business: begin with a detailed plan, network, develop community partnerships, surround oneself with the right people, stay ahead of the curve, and find a healthy work-life balance.
For more information about the Greenville-Pitt Chamber of Commerce , visit Pitt-Greenville Chamber of Commerce. For more information about the Pitt County Educational Foundation, visit Pitt County Educational Foundation.
