🎉 LA's 35th Anniversary Recap and Photos!

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35th Anniversary Celebration

We extended the call to “come join the anniversary celebration,” and so many LA members did! Thank you for making it so special, festive and engaging.

After 35 years, Leadership Alabama is still “challenging, motivating and engaging Alabama’s proven leaders,” and 268 enthusiastic members and guests recently gathered at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear to commemorate three and a half remarkable decades of working together for the continued advancement of our state. Members from every corner of the state from each class since 1990 attended the festivities, and it was another wonderful milestone in LA’s storied history. And, the swag bags were The. Best. Ever.!

Thank you to our wonderful sponsors who provided so many wonderful goodies to add to the treasures that LA provided each attendee.

“I was just thinking about how great the 35-year celebration event was last week. Everything was great… the venue, food, speakers, fellowship.”

David Nast, former LA board chair, LA Class XX, Huntsville

“Thank you for a wonderful few days at the Leadership Alabama 35th Anniversary celebration! The food, speakers and music were amazing! The best part is always to be in the company of other inspirational people.”

John Fitzgerald, LA Class XXXIV, Gulf Shores

The anniversary event began on Wednesday, August 6, on the Grand Patio beachside overlooking the gorgeous Mobile Bay, and it overflowed with energized camaraderie, celebratory toasts and a delicious Low Country Boil feast.

Four siblings and a spouse - ALL LA members!

On Thursday, August 7, following a plentiful breakfast buffet, three impactful and entertaining speakers - Dr. Jim Johnson, Mr. Joshua Jones and Ms. Fawn Weaver – regaled everyone with pertinent and inspirational information about social trends, trending demographics, AI and its impact on the workforce of tomorrow and the origins of Uncle Nearest Bourbon’s success.

Following such a powerful morning of incredible speakers, the afternoon was spent enjoying the many amenities of the Grand Hotel or visiting the charming town of Fairhope. After relaxing all afternoon, everyone donned their dancing shoes and reassembled once again for another fabulous evening of cocktails, food stations with amazing offerings and an over-the-top band, “Party on the Moon.” The dance floor was jammed all evening as everyone reveled to the music reminiscent of so many vibrant and fun memories from years gone by.

The morning of Friday, August 8, began with another delicious breakfast bar, and then the group gathered to hear the inspiring, remarkable life story of Mr. Monty Criswell, an award-winning, country music songwriter and Stage III cancer survivor. It was an unbelievable testament to strength, perseverance and faith. In addition to sharing his very personal story, he also performed a few of his songs that became huge hits, such as “I Saw God Today,” which was released by George Strait. The anniversary celebration concluded following Mr. Criswell’s presentation, which was the perfect send-off to the three fabulous days spent together.

“The anniversary event at The Grand was exceptional. The program, food, entertainment… everything was first class. The event was a tremendous success.”

Jim Page, LA Class XVII, Huntsville

“Congratulations on an absolutely fabulous reunion.”

Cathy Randall, LA Class III, Tuscaloosa

Our anniversary celebration would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, and we offer heartfelt thanks for their valued investment in Leadership Alabama.

And, we thank The Grand Hotel for graciously welcoming us once again.

Save the Date!!

In just a few weeks, we will gather in regions across the state to connect with area LA members and welcome Class XXXV new members! Mark your calendar now for your region's event and watch for an email invite to come soon!

Wednesday, September 10 - Cullman Lunch

Wednesday, September 10 - Huntsville/NE Alabama Reception

Thursday, September 11 - Decatur/Shoals Reception

Thursday, September 18 - Mobile/Baldwin Reception

Thursday, September 25 - Auburn/East Alabama Lunch

Thursday, September 25 - Montgomery Reception

Tuesday, September 30 - Tuscaloosa/West Alabama Lunch

Tuesday, September 30 - Birmingham Reception

Thursday, October 2 - Wiregrass Lunch

We hope to see you soon!