Jackson, TENN. April 9, 2025 –Thirty-eight aspiring young leaders have completed the 2024-2025 Leadership University program, a community youth leadership development program of the Greater Jackson Chamber. The class represents all public, private and home-schooled juniors in Jackson - Madison County high schools.

Leadership University is a ten-month program designed to identify a diverse group of high school students who demonstrate leadership potential; and to develop in an interactive environment, the framework for constructive leadership, committed involvement and responsible participation in the future of this community.

“This Leadership University class has been an absolute joy to work with. We've had the privilege of watching them come together to learn, grow, and develop the skills needed to become future leaders in our community. It’s been inspiring to see these students support and challenge each other, share their unique perspectives, and collaborate to make a lasting impact. Congratulations to the LU class of 2025! Your journey is just beginning,” states Ryan Blake, vice-chair of Leadership University.

During the celebration, class members were recognized for their achievements and received their Leadership University graduate certificate of completion. Caroline Piner, Augustine School, received the honor of the Judy Renshaw Youth Leadership Award for surpassing all requirements in Leadership University.

Throughout the program, class members completed 64 classroom hours, a total of 830 of community service, and a group project. Leadership University students discussed ethical leadership with local leaders, participated in mock job interviews, tackled alcohol and drug issues, and other activities. The program helps the class members see their community from different viewpoints and focus on where they can make a positive difference.

The 2024-2025 Leadership University class includes:

Edie Allen, Trinity Christian Academy

Ambrielle Bowker, Jackson Christian School

Isaac Brady, Augustine School

Gracie Bratcher, Jackson Christian School

Kalia Burrell, Jackson Central Merry-Early College High School

Lydia Cashion, Trinity Christian Academy

Michael Cook, University School of Jackson

Jayla Delk, Trinity Christian Academy

Addyson Dewitt, Jackson Christian School

Madeline Eldridge, University School of Jackson

Talayeh Fryer, South Side High School

Kipi Golden, University School of Jackson

Miller Hornsby, South Side High School

Lauren Hutchison, University School of Jackson

Micah Isom, South Side High School

William "Ayden" Johnson, University School of Jackson

Katherine Kelley, Trinity Christian Academy

Samuel Latham, Madison Academic Magnet High School

Jaylon Longley, Augustine School

Abigail Melton, Jackson Christian School

Emma Murray, South Side High School

Maggie Norris, University School of Jackson

Hudson O'Neill, Jackson Central Merry-Early College High School

Lisha Patel, North Side High School

Mary Pettigrew, Augustine School

Caroline Piner, Augustine School

Addie Redmon, Jackson Christian School

Lydia Rice, Homelife Academy

Max Richardson, Trinity Christian Academy

David Rooks, Madison Academic Magnet High School

Je'Delle Ross, Jackson Central Merry-Early College High School

Madalyn Smith, Jackson Christian School

Tanishi Sorker, Jackson Christian School

Ella Stephenson, Madison Academic Magnet High School

Devin Wagner, University School of Jackson

Ellie Williams, Trinity Christian Academy

Boyan "Bonnie" Xu, Madison Academic Magnet High School

Ava Young, University School of Jackson

The major sponsors of the program this year are Union University and Jackson State Community College. Corporate sponsors include Adelsberger Marketing, Alexander Thompson Arnold PLLC, Central Distributors, Inc., Christian Brothers Automotive, FirstBank, Gerdau, Guiding Star Insurance, Hiller Plumbing Heating Cooling Electrical, Jackson Energy Authority, Leaders Credit Union, TLM and Associates, and West Tennessee Healthcare. 

About the Leadership University:
Leadership University is a youth leadership development program for Jackson-Madison County and is made up of a diverse group of high school juniors who demonstrate leadership potential. Started in 1999 as a team class project of Leadership Jackson, LU prepares participants to become responsible, ethical leaders who make a positive difference in others and their community by creating awareness in all aspects of the community.

About the Greater Jackson Chamber:
The Greater Jackson Chamber was founded in 1905 – seven years prior to the United States Chamber of Commerce. The chamber consists of a diverse and talented staff, an executive committee, dedicated volunteers, and more than 1,000 business members – all committed to growing the economy and quality of life for everyone in Madison County and the region.

 

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