CLEVELAND, Miss. — Delta State University announced that Edward McCadney, a procurement contract specialist at the university, has been selected for the 2026 cohort of the Bolivar County L.E.A.D. program.
McCadney was chosen based on his job performance, community involvement and demonstrated leadership potential, according to a university news release.
L.E.A.D. Bolivar — which stands for Leadership Education Action Development — is a community leadership initiative designed to provide participants with insight into the industries, institutions and civic structures that shape Bolivar County. The program includes interactive sessions, hands-on experiences and discussions aimed at strengthening regional collaboration and development.
Kelvin Davis, associate vice president of finance and administration at Delta State, said McCadney’s selection reflects the university’s commitment to cultivating leadership both on campus and in the broader community.
“Effective leadership is built on growth, collaboration and service to others,” Davis said in a statement. “Edward represents those values and reflects the mission of Delta State University.”
Davis said McCadney’s role in procurement requires attention to detail and integrity — qualities he said align well with the goals of the L.E.A.D. program. He added that McCadney’s participation is expected to strengthen ties between the university and the Bolivar County community.
McCadney will join other professionals from across the county in the yearlong program focused on identifying opportunities for service and economic and civic growth in Cleveland and the surrounding area.
