Stanley shares presentation tips with Eagles Leadership Convocation
Illustrating actions can speak volumes, certified speaking professional Mandi Stanley brought her “no-panic” presentation tips to members of the 2025-26 Eagles Leadership Convocation (E.L.C.) at Meridian Community College.
The group’s latest session focused on how to communicate with confidence. Stanley guided participants through a lighthearted “venting session” on common presentation pet peeves—like reading straight from slides, rambling off-topic, and failing to prepare. “If you’re reading for people what they can read themselves, is it necessary?” Stanley asked. “Know your material and be the subject matter expert.”
The class also discussed best practices for strong presentations, centering on what Stanley calls “the big three”: message, delivery, and nonverbal awareness. “Those are the main components leaders need when presenting to small groups, teaching classes, or speaking to departments,” she said.
Stanley’s visit marked her fourth time presenting to the E.L.C. With more than 27 years of experience on the seminar circuit, she has worked with organizations including Campbell’s Soup, the U.S. Air Force, and the NFL.
The Eagles Leadership Convocation is a yearlong professional development program directed by the Meridian Community College Foundation. Members of the Class of 2026 include Veronica Fox, Jawanda Huggins, Eric Jones, Chris King, Parker Manley, James Runnels, Rhonda Smith, Crystal Sterling, and Dr. Tommy Winston.
“Listening to Mandi made me realize just how important speaking skills are. I didn’t just learn how to put together a strong speech or presentation; I also learned to pay attention to how I present myself during meetings and presentations. Now I can focus on the small details that add up to being a strong, confident speaker,” said Manley.
MCC President Dr. Tom Huebner and Dr. Leia Hill, vice president for institutional advancement and executive director of the MCC Foundation, serve as program facilitators. Courtney Pitts, executive assistant to the vice president for institutional advancement, is the program assistant.
The next E.L.C. session is set for Dec. 2, featuring Dr. Lavon Gray on Conflict Resolution, Critical Thinking, and Problem Solving.
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu/elc.