News

Elizabeth “Liz” Barnes, MHS., community outreach navigator at the Southwestern Illinois Justice & Workforce Development Campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, has been selected for the 2025-26 Leadership Belleville class. Hosted by the Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce, the distinguished nine-month program brings together top professionals to enhance leadership skills and community engagement.

Leadership Belleville brings together a cohort of top professionals from across the region to enhance leadership abilities, engage with community and business leaders and address key issues affecting the City of Belleville. For Barnes, the experience is both a professional opportunity and a personal commitment to serve.

“The University will receive exposure and a foundation for community partnerships will be established,” said Barnes. “Personally, I will have the opportunity to build relationships, deepen leadership skills and be equipped to better serve the City of Belleville.”

Barnes views the program as a chance to learn more about Belleville and identify unique opportunities to contribute. She emphasized that civic leadership is about presence and consistency.

“What I have learned through my experience in community engagement is the importance of how you show up,” said Barnes. “Serving people well matters. Community members pay attention to your efforts and your regard for them in your work. You’ll know how well you did when you come back.”

The 2025-26 Leadership Belleville program began Friday, Aug. 15, with a kick-off retreat. Participants will continue through monthly sessions focused on topics such as government, education, healthcare and economic development.

Barnes is especially looking forward to gaining a deeper understanding of Belleville and building on SIUE’s role in fostering community partnerships. For her, leadership is measured not just in titles or programs, but in the simple truth she carries forward—how you show up matters.

PHOTO: Elizabeth Barnes