Editor’s Note
Dear Reader,
2014 has been a phenomenal year! Since the release of the inaugural issue in March, we’ve received an outpouring of support
regionally as well as nationally. Rural Leader under 20 and 40 under
40 honors were immensely successful. Best Small Town Restaurant
honors was another sweet spot as recognized popular mom and pop
restaurants in small communities.
In this issue, we present more insightful articles on not only leadership, but also practical tips to advance one’s career or to enhance
business practice and productivity. By far, however, we are most
proud and excited to unveil 2014 Small Town America’s 100 Most
Influential People! These deserving individuals represent small rural
communities across the nation. We salute the nominees for their
contributions and efforts, which make small town America a wonderful place to live, work, and play.
We sincerely thank you for your unwavering support throughout
the year. As we embark into the New Year, we aim to continue to
grow this publication and to try new concepts. Rural Leader Magazine will be published six times per year beginning January 2015.
Until then, we wish you and yours a happy, safe, and prosperous
Holiday Season!
Sincerely,
Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Dear Rural Leader Magazine,
Loving this magazine! I cannot
wait to read the next issue.
—Brian C.
Alabaster, AL
Reader's Voice
Dear Rural Leader Magazine,
I was so impressed with the 4o
under 40 issue. It is high time the
folks in small towns get the recognition we deserve!
—Francis. W
Baconton, GA
Dear Rural Leader Magazine,
Thanks for the article, What
Employers Want. The article was
timely and informative