There is something about August that always feels like a fresh start. As the school buses begin rolling, classrooms fill back up, and calendars quickly become packed, I can’t help but think of it as a new season of possibilities. Even if you’re long removed from school, there is still something energizing about this time of year. It’s a chance to refocus, reset priorities, and get ready for what always seems to become one of the busiest stretches of the year.July certainly kept us moving!
6th, 7th, and 8th grade students from public, private, charter, and home have already taken part in the first-round civics essay competition and the second-round Regional Competition. The top students from each Regional Competition have been selected to advance to Alabama Chamber’s State Finals: an in-person, live event featuring two rounds of civics questions followed by a Q&A round in which students will discuss their proposals for improving their communities. Jay K. from Auburn who attends Indian Springs School in Pelham, took first place, followed by Maksymilian J. and Henry H, both from the Birmingham area. for second and third places, respectively. The judges for this year’s competition were Dylan Arnette, Public Affairs Specialist with Kinder Morgan; Lillian Pitman, Legislative Policy Analyst with the Alabama League of Municipalities; and Laura Strickland, IOM, President/CEO of the Sylacauga Chamber and Board Chair of Alabama Chambers.
We are halfway through the year, and only
about 60 days from the much beloved ‘Ber
months! I hope that the first half of the year has treated you well and that the second half will do the same.
As I sit to write this, I have just returned from one of my favorite weeks of the year – Southeast Institute for Organization Management. This year was particularly meaningful as I had the honor of serving as Chair of the Board of Regents. Representing Alabama and having the opportunity to give back to a program that means so much was truly a moment I will not soon forget.
Happy Summer! Hard to believe as I write this the calendar has flipped to June. Hopefully, for many of you that means a chance to slow down a bit, soak in some sun, and spend some time with family.
The Alabama Chambers is excited to host the 2026 National Civics Bee® State Finals at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts on July 16, 2026. The event is open to the public, inviting community members to attend and cheer on these talented young civic leaders, with opportunities to participate in a live audience civics quiz.
Happy Half Halloween (for those who celebrate)! Yep, April 30 marked ½ way to Halloween. As Mother Nature gives us a few days of respite before turning us to broil for the summer, I am reflecting on another great month of service to you. April was productive and busy, from beginning to end.
On April 28, 2026, the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama (Alabama Chambers) held its Night of Champions during their 2026 Executive Leadership Conference at The Graduate in Huntsville, AL.
March found us full steam ahead in planning for our upcoming Executive Leadership Conference in Huntsville at the end of April. I am truly excited about the stellar line up we have for this year’s speakers. It is “out of this world.” Additionally, the National Civics Bee® entered a new phase as finalist were chosen for our upcoming regional bees. The top 3 from each of these will meet on July 16, 2026, in Montgomery for the Alabama National Civics Bee State Finals presented by Kinder Morgan. Mark your calendar and make plans to join us.
January brought an early start to the legislative session on Tuesday, January 13th. As happens, the first week of the session brought a buzz to Montgomery with the first BCA Tuesday morning briefing with Governor Ivey. The next morning I was happy to join friends and colleagues for the ADN Legislative Kickoff Breakfast followed by our first Alabama Chambers board meeting and the BCA Legislative Reception. We are also pleased to be with ATN as they cut the ribbon on their official renaming to Alabama Training Network.
We are excited to announce the 2026 dates and information for the the Huntingdon College Economic and Community Development Scholars Program.