An ‘Exchange’ of ideas, program’s first cohort is ready for ‘Launch’
Cooperation and trust are key ingredients in getting projects done among companies, agencies, governments and people.
In fact, John Allen, board chairman of Launch, put it simply: “We do so much more and better together.”
Launch is a regional partnership serving 13 counties across North Alabama. The organization recently announced the inaugural cohort of The Exchange, a regional leadership program powered by the Tennessee Valley Authority.
The first cohort of The Exchange will meet Tuesday and Wednesday in Decatur, bringing together 29 leaders from all 13 counties. It is the first of five sessions over the next nine months, taking the class to communities throughout the region.
Allen, also the CEO of the Committee of 100, was moderator at the recent Launch North Alabama Regional Transportation Summit and spoke of The Exchange.
“Getting to know people … getting to trust people so we can work together,” said Allen. “We’re strengthening bonds and relationships across the region.
“Launch serves to advocate for the greatness of North Alabama.”
The Exchange was identified as a key strategic initiative in Launch’s Roadmap for the Region, which called for a leadership connectivity program to strengthen relationships across county lines and fuel a more connected North Alabama.
“The strongest partnerships aren’t built quickly or easily,” said Dave Hargrove, who served as Launch chair 2015-18. “They are forged over time through consistently shared purpose, meaningful conversations, and a genuine commitment to helping each other succeed. I’m especially inspired by this new collaboration between the Tennessee Valley Authority, the University of North Alabama, and Launch.
“These organizations are not only strengthening existing ties but also creating new opportunities to elevate our region’s future through deeper connection, innovation, and collective impact.”
Designed to strengthen regional leadership capacity, The Exchange connects leaders from across industries and professions to explore shared opportunities and challenges while developing a broader understanding of the region’s strengths and potential.
Through interactive sessions, site visits, and peer learning, participants examine regional opportunities, share best practices, and build relationships that encourage innovation and collective problem-solving.
“I believe The Exchange will provide an opportunity for leaders across our region to come together, learn about one another and our respective communities, and build the relationships and trust necessary for meaningful collaboration,” said board member Chrystal Brown, who represents Morgan County. “The collective strength of our region lies in our ability to work together, and The Exchange will help us move our entire region forward, together.”
Board member Mary Marshall VanSant, who is director of the Office of Regional Engagement at UNA, said this will fuel a true connection among colleagues that’s been missing.
“Strong regions are built on strong connections, and The Exchange is about creating opportunities for leaders across North Alabama to know one another, understand the assets and challenges of our communities, and build relationships that lead to collaboration,” she said. “When we connect the right people across county lines, we create opportunities that strengthen the entire region.”
