HERMISTON — The Eastern Oregon Economic Summit is a two-day event that includes industry tours, state and federal legislative updates, and industry developments.

According to a press release the event provides a collaborative platform designed to forge partnerships, share innovative ideas and chart a course for sustained economic vitality in area communities. Tickets range from $50 to $175.

Hosted by the Eastern Oregon Women’s Coalition, the event begins with industry tours Thursday, June 20, with participants boarding buses at 7:30 a.m. at Hermiston High School 600 S. First St. It includes lunch and concludes with an evening reception and dinner at 4:30 p.m. — buses will depart at 7 p.m. to return to Hermiston.

The program on June 21 begins at 8 a.m. with an overview of rural Oregon’s current climate and energy landscape, with a special focus on Eastern Oregon counties. Breakout sessions and discussion panels presented throughout the day feature private and public sector leaders. In addition, several representatives and senators will provide a legislative update during lunch.

Additional information, including a full agenda, and tickets is available via www.easternoregonsummit.com. For questions, email info@eowc.biz.

HERMISTON — Umatilla Electric Cooperative has announced the start of the Proud River Leadership Academy, an evolution of the former Leadership Hermiston program.

In a press release, UEC said the initiative “underscores Umatilla Electric’s commitment to fostering personal and professional development within our community, aiming to power professional and civic achievement across the region.”

The academy is for professionals in leadership positions or those seeking growth opportunities who would benefit from focused leadership coaching, a deeper understanding of the region, and networking with peers across Morrow and Umatilla counties.

Participants will engage in a comprehensive development course aimed at enhancing their leadership skills to oversee personnel effectively, improve workplace communications, and empower others to achieve common goals. The program emphasizes the importance of relationships and communication in driving both personal and professional success.

Classes will be on the third Tuesday of each month from September 2024 through June 2025, beginning at 8 a.m. and concluding at 4 p.m. While based in Hermiston, the program includes field trips to various locations across Morrow and Umatilla counties, providing a broad perspective on regional dynamics.

Tuition for the program is $1,250, which includes lunches, transportation and all program materials.

Josh Burns will facilitate the Proud River Leadership Academy. He brings more than 20 years of experience from leadership positions in the U.S. Air Force, a Fortune 100 corporation, small business and regional banking. In addition to his role at Umatilla Electric, Burns also is involved in the community, having served as the president of the Hermiston Rotary Club, the board president for the Greater Hermiston Area Chamber of Commerce and a founding member of the HERO Sportsplex committee.

For more information and to apply, visit the UEC website at www.umatillaelectric.com. Applications will be accepted through July 19.

— Hermiston Herald