WEEKLY SMILE: Angie Wells

For Angie Wells, leadership is not about having a particular title. It is about showing up, serving others and helping people recognize what they can accomplish together.

That philosophy is woven throughout Wells’ work as Executive Assistant to the President/CEO of the Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce and Director of Leadership Putnam.

Born and raised in Ohio, Wells has deep Tennessee roots. Both of her parents were born and raised in LaFollette, and when her husband’s job brought their family to Tennessee, the state quickly became home.

“I’ve grown to love the people, the sense of community, and the way people here come together to support one another,” Wells said. Highlands Insider questions

Before joining the Chamber, Wells worked for Circuit Court, Chancery Court and Tennessee Tech. Prior to moving to Tennessee, she spent 24 years working for the State of Ohio, rising from deputy clerk to Chief Financial Officer.

Each chapter, she says, has helped prepare her for the work she does today.

At the Chamber, no two days are quite the same. Wells helps coordinate schedules, meetings and events, works with community partners and helps keep the organization moving smoothly. But Leadership Putnam provides her with an especially meaningful opportunity to help others discover more about the community they call home.

“I love watching participants realize just how much is happening in Putnam County and how many people are working behind the scenes to make our community better,” Wells said. “They often discover strengths and leadership abilities they didn’t realize they had.”

Perhaps her favorite part is watching Leadership Putnam classmates build relationships, become more engaged and understand that leadership does not always come with a title.

For Wells, the class projects bring that lesson to life. People who may not have known one another before the program come together to create something meaningful for the community.

“It reminds me that leadership is about service and what we can accomplish when we work together,” she said. Highlands Insider questions

That same spirit of service is what Wells appreciates most about Putnam County.

“The people!” she said when asked what about the community always makes her smile. “I love seeing how willing people are to step up, volunteer, support local organizations, and help their neighbors.”

Away from work, Wells enjoys gardening, reading, crafting and spending time with family.

And for anyone who wants to become more involved in the community but does not know where to begin, Wells has simple advice: start small.

“Find an organization, cause, or community event that interests you and simply show up,” she said. “You don’t have to have all the answers or a leadership title to make a difference. Sometimes the smallest act of service leads to the biggest opportunities.” Highlands Insider questions

That willingness to serve, connect people and help others discover their own ability to lead is exactly what makes Angie Wells this week’s Weekly Smile.