Wed, May 1, 2019 at 09:00 PM

Marshall Medical team members enjoy Montgomery trip with leadership group

MCLC Montgomery visit offered opportunity for health system employees to network and learn more about state government.

Three Marshall Medical employees recently visited Montgomery as participants of this year’s Marshall County Leadership Challenge (MCLC) class. The group also included a representative from The Foundation for Marshall Medical Centers.

Representing Marshall Medical for the state capitol trip were Justin Blanks, site director of diagnostic imaging; Colby Cook, nurse at Marshall South; and Cindy Sparkman, director of Marshall Cancer Care Center. Jennifer Amos, donor relations coordinator for The Foundation, also made the trip.

MCLC is an annual professional development program that provides the opportunity for local community leaders to learn more about a wide variety of subjects, including Alabama’s government.

While in Montgomery, they attended the Marshall County Legislative Reception, received a session update from the Marshall County Legislative Delegation, met with Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth, and were guided on a tour of the Alabama Attorney General’s Office by Attorney General Steve Marshall. 
 
The MCLC group also got to observe the legislature in session, tour the Alabama Judicial Building and State Capitol, and participate in a “Q & A” discussion with Judges McCool and Kellum inside the Supreme Court Courtroom. 

“Our trip was a great time and very educational. I enjoyed it all very much,” said Blanks.

He discussed the Marshall County Legislative Reception as one of his favorite parts of the trip.

“I had the opportunity to meet several state leaders,” said Blanks, “The reception allowed me the opportunity to network and meet new faces.”

Favorite aspects, key benefits

Jennifer Amos of the The Foundation also serves as MCLC’s treasurer. She shared her favorite moments during the Montgomery visit, including the legislative reception and a meeting with county representatives and senators, and how those moments were valuable experiences for the MCLC class. 

“The Marshall County Legislative Reception is a great way for citizens of our county, not just class participants, to interact with Marshall County delegates as well as delegates from all over the state. The Governor even attended this year,” Amos said.

“I also enjoyed the one-on-one time with Marshall County Representatives and Senators. This time allows the class participants to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the pending legislation that affects the citizens of Marshall County,” she said.

Amos shared why Marshall Medical employees’ involvement in the MCLC program serves as resource for professional development.

“It is incredibly beneficial for MMC employees to participate, not only to gain a better understanding of our county, its infrastructure and economic impact, but also for the networking opportunities, camaraderie and leadership skills that participants build.”