WASHINGTON, D.C. — Debbie Hudson was recently awarded a Regent Scholarship by the Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

Hudson is president and CEO, of the Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce.

Given to professionals across the country, the Regent Scholarships recognize recipients for their involvement in industry professional organizations, community service and professional background.

“Regent scholarships offer executives the opportunity to attend (the) institute and learn about emerging industry trends, expand their organizations’ influence and grow their peer network,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, vice president of Institute for Organization Management at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. “We are pleased to help these talented professionals advance their careers and organizations.”

Since its commencement in 1921, the institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at five different university locations throughout the country. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance and membership, institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively.

Graduates of Institute receive the IOM recognition, signifying completion of 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management. In addition, participants can earn credit hours toward the Certified Chamber Executive or Certified Association Executive certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend the institute annually.