This is Richland County CEO member, Jillian Bettis. It is hard to believe CEO is over. This class has truly changed me. I have learned so much, from starting the micro business at the beginning, to launching my own. I never thought I would grow this much in just one year. A huge thank you goes out to our investors, board members, mentors, facilitator, and the community. Without your support we would not be where we are today as young adults. You truly shaped us into better people in the short amount of time you had with us. My favorite memory was the Trade Show. Seeing everyone’s hard work come to life was amazing. I was nervous, excited to sell my products, and proud of everyone and all they had accomplished all at once. What I will miss most is the people and the relationships I have built. We are not just another class, we are a family. We laughed, stressed, succeeded, and failed together. I wouldn’t trade that for anything. To the Class of 2026, take every opportunity you can, push yourself out of your comfort zone, and trust the process. CEO will change you in many different ways, but you have to let it. One last thank you to Sheri, our facilitator, mentor, and second mom. You believed in us even when we did not believe in ourselves. Your heart, patience, and passion make CEO what it is. Thank you for showing up for us every single day. You have impacted our lives more than you know. Thank you.
20May