"The Political Leadership Institute helped me to assess my suitability to run for office and was a confidence-builder. When I finished the 3-day forum, I came to believe that running for office was actually doable. By bringing together experts in their fields, we in the group were empowered to make better decisions on whether, when, why, and how to run for elected office. We learned the common pitfalls of candidates and how to avoid them. The forum demystified the challenge of building political allies, networking, and staying on track with a meaningful message. Important for me, the forum brought diverse, engaged people together, who all share a desire to make a difference in their communities; this cohort will be the first group of people whom I can call close allies in my political career. Finally, it was important to reaffirm and remember that elected officials should and must serve their constituencies."
"PLI helped broaden my horizons, now because of the course what used to be a mystery is now completely reality to me!"
"As someone contemplating becoming a candidate in the 2011 local elections, I must admit that my expectations were high. I watched other candidates file and begin to campaign for the seat in question and hoped that the benefits of my decision to participate in PLI would outweigh any benefits those candidates gained from early filing. I have no doubt about that choice now. Many of the presentations contained specific strategies and tactics that will be invaluable. But, more importantly, the "it's not about me" mantra changed my entire perspective on campaigns. I believed I had something valuable to offer in the public servant role, but dreaded the campaign process. I came away comfortable with the process and inspired ! Thank you."
"In the twenty years that I have been a Jacksonville resident I have attended countless seminars and workshops, but my participation in JRPLI was truly a life changing experience. The information presented was not only thought provoking but very much applicable to today's political environment. I am thankful to Mark Mills and the Jacksonville Regional Chamber for giving me this opportunity. I feel this program will not only make me a better candidate, but our community will ultimately be the biggest winner because of the level of training each participant will receive."
"PLI was an outstanding experience. I came into the class with a sound understanding of campaigning; however, I realized I didn't know as much as I thought I did. PLI was very informative and is a necessity for anyone considering running for office."
"The regional political leadership institute not only allowed me to connect with people who share in the fundamental ideas based upon the business influence and growth of our city, but also allowed me to network and get to know future leaders in both public and private avenues on a local, state or national level."
"The Jacksonville PLI was an excellent opportunity to learn from experts in the field the basics of mounting a political campaign, optimizing interactions with the media, and delivering your message in a way that earns the respect and trust of even those who do not agree with you. Having completed the two day PLI session, I now think that running for office is a real possibility."
"The PLI agenda was packed with great local, regional, and national speakers delivering great information helpful to anyone considering running for public office. Through this education, our community stands to benefit from the continued development of its future political leaders. Jacksonville is very fortunate that the PLI Board of Directors and program sponsors see the value of such tremendous resources."
"The Jacksonville PLI conference was superb! It provided essential knowledge on issues for a successful campaign. It is a powerful enhancement for those of us who are not in politics everyday! I was impressed and look forward to more!"
"If you are thinking about becoming a public servant, this class will supply you with the most informative, no-nonsense, straight shooting assessment of what it will take."
"The PLI was a tremendous experience. The caliber of faculty & speakers, well respected insiders and practitioners who know politics, was top notch. I look forward to continuing with the rest of the program."
"The PLI classroom program consisted of two of the most enlightening, and perhaps invigorating, days that I have had the pleasure of spending with individuals that are motivated to elevate and improve their community. I would highly recommend anyone, regardless of political persuasion, to engage in this program either as a participant or as a supporter. It will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life."
"Thanks so much for introducing PLI to Jacksonville. In time, I believe that this program will be seen by many as having the largest impact on our political landscape since consolidation forty years ago."
