Chris Hill, the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, has completed the second year of the Community Development Institute (CDI) at the University of Central Arkansas. This nationally recognized program provides advanced training for professionals in community and economic development. Hill’s participation in the three-year course is supported by a professional development scholarship from Citizens Bank.
The CDI training consists of a rigorous week-long session each year, focusing on leadership development, economic strategies, placemaking, and strategic planning. Hill emphasized how the program fosters collaboration and idea sharing among participants from diverse backgrounds.
“One of the greatest strengths of CDI is learning alongside people from communities across Arkansas and beyond,” Hill said. “Every community faces unique challenges, but many of the best solutions come from sharing ideas and learning from one another. I’m excited to bring those ideas back to Batesville and Independence County as we continue building on the momentum our community has created.”
Hill’s responsibilities at the chamber include guiding its communication strategies, tourism marketing under the “Experience Independence” initiative, and community engagement efforts. He has played a key role in promoting Batesville through projects such as the Christmas Capital of Arkansas campaign, the Batesville Rodeo, and the recent Riverside Park Renovation. In addition to his work at the chamber, Hill serves on the Batesville Parks and Recreation Committee.
The president and CEO of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, Crystal Johnson, praised Hill’s dedication to leadership and professional development. “Chris approaches every project with creativity, curiosity, and a genuine desire to make our community even better,” Johnson said. “CDI challenges leaders to think strategically, collaborate with others, and bring home ideas that create lasting impact. I’m proud of his commitment to professional growth and excited to see him complete the program next year.”
Established in 1987, CDI focuses on equipping professionals with skills in community leadership, long-term planning, and economic collaboration. It serves participants from Arkansas and neighboring states, awarding graduates the designation of Professional Community and Economic Developer (PCED) through the Community Development Council. Hill is set to return for his third and final year of the program next summer.