Georgia Department of Labor 
Suite 642 148 International Boulevard N.E. Atlanta, Georgia 30303-1751 (404)656-3032 
 
June 29, 1998 
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
 
ROBERSON GRADUATES FROM LABOR DEPARTMENT'S EXCEL PROGRAM 
 
ATLANTA -- State Labor Commissioner Marti Fullerton said today that Shirley L. Roberson of Jonesboro recently graduated from the Georgia Department of Labor's leadership training program, Executive Commitment to Excellence in Leadership (EXCEL). 
 
Roberson is a micro-support specialist in the labor department's central office in Atlanta. 
 
"Every organization must develop and train its follow-on leadership in order to survive and prosper," said Fullerton. "The old adage that says 'leaders aren't born, they are mentored,' is exemplified throughout our department, as we continue our quality service initiative and adjust to numerous major changes in state government. The foundation for our leadership development programs must stress flexibility towards change and encourage leader initiative. Our EXCEL program is one of the best opportunities for our employees to learn to adapt to change and to develop leadership potential." 
 
The year-long program, now in its sixth year, is administered by labor department training director Ashley Howard. Classes are limited to a maximum of 20 people, who are chosen from among the agency's 1,800 employees. Full-time employees can apply for the program, but to be considered, they must also be recommended by their supervisor. Applicants are judged on job performance, achievements, personal initiative and community involvement. Final choices are made by two selection committees and approved by the commissioner. 
 
The program consists of four, two-day seminars held at different locations around the state. Its purpose and goals are to identify and help develop future leaders within the department; identify issues that face the state and develop creative ways of solving them; encourage employees to participate in educational and community programs; foster a common, broad vision within all divisions and offices, and develop a quality work force. 
 
The highly-interactive program is coordinated through the University of Georgia's Institute of Government, and features private sector instructors and adjunct faculty from government agencies. 
 
NEWS MEDIA NEEDING MORE INFORMATION MAY CALL (404) 656-3032. E-mail: communications@dol.state.ga.us. 
 
FY-98-679 
 
An Equal Opportunity Employer