Ferguson Graduates TVA Rural Leadership Institute

Ferguson Graduates TVA’s Rural Leadership Institute

Athens, TN – December 8, 2025, Lindsey Ferguson, Executive Director of McMinn County Economic Development Authority recently graduated from TVA’s Rural Leadership Institute. The Rural Leadership Institute, developed and sponsored by TVA Economic Development, provides professional leadership training to rural community economic development professionals in the TVA service area.

The institute is designed to help local participants more effectively lead volunteers, partner organizations, businesses, elected officials and citizens to ensure long-term success.

Three two-day sessions were conducted by leading area experts. The training included focused skills development in the following major areas.

• Your Leadership Impact: Understanding People, Products & Power
• Building Competitive Advantage: Economic Development Sales Training
• Outclassing the Competition in Site Selection

“Rural America’s ability to compete for jobs and investment hinges on innovative local leadership – leaders who not only prepare and position their communities with market-ready assets but also connect authentically with their stakeholders and communicate a compelling vision that differentiates their community’s unique strengths,” said TVA Vice President of Economic Development Heidi Smith.

Over 270 individuals have participated in the program since it began in 2011. Recent leadership graduate Lindsey Ferguson, Executive Director of McMinn County Economic Development Authority: “The TVA Rural Leadership Institute has equipped me to think strategically about how McMinn County can stand out in a competitive landscape. I’m committed to preparing our community with market-ready assets while building authentic connections and sharing a compelling vision that highlights our unique strengths. This experience reinforces my dedication to driving sustainable growth and opportunity for our region.”

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) a corporation owned by the U.S. government provides electricity for business customers and distribution utilities that serve 10 million people in seven southeastern states.  Economic development is a major part of TVA’s core mission.  TVA’s Economic Development services are focused on attracting targeted new industries, retaining and growing existing businesses and partnering with communities to help foster economic growth.  More information is available at TVA.com.

For more information on McMinn County Economic Development Authority, please contact Lindsey Ferguson, Executive Director, at (423) 745-1506 or by email at Lindsey@MakeItInMcMinn.org. Visit us online at www.MakeItInMcMinn.org.

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