A Batesville community development professional has completed a highly regarded training program designed to empower leaders with tools for strengthening local economies and improving quality of life.
Amy Finster, community development director for FARCO, a Batesville-based design-build construction company, graduated from the University of Central Arkansas’ (UCA) Community Development Institute (CDI) on July 31. Finster was among 42 professionals recognized as part of the program’s 40th annual session.
The CDI program, founded at UCA in 1987, equips community leaders, economic development professionals, and public officials with skills aimed at fostering growth and sustainable development. Participants in the three-year program attend one intensive week of training annually, progressing through the curriculum alongside a cohort while also building professional networks.
"The Community Development Institute has challenged me to think differently about leadership and community growth," said Finster. "Over the past three years, I’ve had the opportunity to learn from outstanding instructors and community leaders from across Arkansas and the country while building lasting friendships. The experience has reinforced the importance of collaboration, investing in people, and creating communities where businesses and families can thrive."
Finster plays a key role at FARCO, working to strengthen relationships with Arkansas municipalities, schools, economic development organizations, and community partners. She plans to put the strategies she learned through CDI into practice, helping communities identify growth opportunities, build partnerships, and advance projects that enhance quality of life while supporting sustainable economic development.
CDI’s training focuses on identifying community assets, setting strategic goals, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and creating partnerships for long-term growth. Since its creation, CDI has expanded to additional locations in states such as Texas, Alabama, and Idaho. The program also led to the establishment of the Community Development Council, which serves as the governing and certification organization for Community Development Institutes nationally.
More information about CDI is available at www.uca.edu/CDI.