GVYL Class of 2024 Graduates: Tomorrow’s Leaders
The Greater Vidalia Youth Leadership Class graduated its newest group of future leaders on Tuesday, March 12, as the annual program met with the Class of 2024 for the last time. “The Greater Vidalia Youth Leadership program is an amazing asset to our youth, as they are able to see and learn more about our community. Often, so many local students don’t get to see the behind the scenes of our community, so I’m thankful that this program allows me to take some of them around once a month so they can learn more,” Greater Vidalia Chamber Director of Operations Amber O’Connor shared.
She continued, “While this has only been my second year overseeing the program, I have truly enjoyed watching these students come to know one another and seeing how they put what they learn into action. On orientation day, some of these students show up not knowing one person in the room, but by graduation night you can truly see them all come together, having built friendships and close bonds.”
During the graduation ceremony, students exhibit their knowledge and skills gained throughout the course by sharing group presentations on each of the class’s seven sessions, which covered topics such as Agriculture, Economic Development, Health and Community Sciences, Government, Professional Development, and Putting Your Best Foot Forward. Through these sessions, students are able to learn more about the various business sectors that make up their community, and develop leadership skills to help them continue to grow as individuals.
Near the end of the class, participants have the opportunity to apply for a $500 scholarship, sponsored by Georgia First Bank. As a part of the scholarship application, the youth are required to submit a 200-word essay detailing how they could improve their community. This year, it was Andrew Hodges and Carlie Roberts who were selected to receive this funding, and were presented with the scholarships during the graduation ceremony.
“Thank you to our program sponsor Brewton- Parker College, and our graduation sponsors Georgia First Bank and The Temples Company for their support,” O’Connor remarked. “Also, thank you to our co-chairs Janna and Derek Park and Marissa Brown for helping to make this program possible!”
The Greater Vidalia Youth Leadership Program is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 Class. Any rising juniors or seniors interested in the program may contact O’Connor at ambero@ greatervidaliachamber. com for an application. All applications are due by May 3.
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS – Andrew Hodges and Carlie Roberts each received a $500 scholarship from Georgia First Bank. L to R: Andrew Hodges, Georgia First Bank Marketing Officer Heather Mead, and Carlie Roberts.
