The members of Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce Lumpkin Youth Leadership Program recently celebrated the completion of the program with a graduation luncheon at Montaluce.
Dealing with the impacts of the pandemic, the class managed to adapt and overcome many challenges, on their way to their April 20 graduation day.
“This year’s class has been a joy to work with,” said Program Chair Tammy Soles. “They always showed up with a positive attitude and willingness to learn more about leadership and our community, despite the pandemic and the challenges it presented.”
"The Chamber Board of Directors and many great volunteers from our community have put a lot of time and effort into making this a leadership and community development program of the highest caliber,” said Chamber Executive Director Robb Nichols.
Nichols said each class day has a theme and corresponding learning objectives.
These included "learning about the community and culture of Lumpkin County; briefings on Economic Development and local Government from local leaders and elected officials," Nichols said. In addition, there were "practical exercises on public-speaking; and the last activity, a class favorite, is learning about etiquette and then practicing those newly acquired skills at the graduation luncheon.”
“It has been a tremendous privilege to serve as LYL Advisor with Tammy Soles," said Paula Cooper, who serves as the Lumpkin County High School’s Advisor and Liaison to the program. "Together, we have watched a group of amazing young people become confident inspiring leaders. I truly believe that LYL is instrumental in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.”
