Youth are the future; the forthcoming of our county, our country, our world. Insurance that the youth of today are prepared for tomorrow’s challenges as they grow more independent falls under the responsibility of us as teachers and role models. Communities progress from the education of adolescents, resulting in growth and sustainability. Cultivating and molding young adults widely benefits us all. As an investment in Union County, Leadership Union County (LUC) has hosted its youth assembly of the program resulting in four fresh graduates.

The Youth Leadership Union County program graduates, Summer Beeler, Chloe Bowman, Tanner Brooks, and Savannah Jones are all current juniors at Union County High School. The class polished their leadership skills, gave them connections and resources within the community and taught them the importance of being involved in something they are passionate about.

Pearl Coffey, who is a current Board Member of LUC and who formerly held several leadership class and board roles, facilitated the class this year. The classmates met weekly for several sessions with guest speakers and organizations sharing specific leadership skills and recommendations on how to be successful in governance roles. In addition, they read the book “Who Moved My Cheese?” and discussed how change affects every person’s life. As a result of class graduation, each student will receive a portion of a college scholarship.

During the kickoff class, Dr. Jason Bailey, Union County Mayor, discussed his participation in Leadership Union County and East Tennessee Regional Leadership Association (ETRLA). He discussed the importance of being a leader and his duties in his previous role as Principal of Paulette Elementary and currently as Mayor. He also led a productive discussion on what the youth would like to see in the growth of Union County.

Randy Turner, Assessor of Property for Union County, discussed Leadership Union County and the importance of appreciation in leadership. He shared his duties as Assessor of Property as well as his role in volunteering in the Union County Children’s Charities. He voiced what a blessing it is for him to be able to gather and distribute the coats and encouraged class members to be involved in service projects.

Union County Soil Conservation District’s Bobby Ellison and Sandra Greene communicated the role of their office and explained the many opportunities they offer landowners in Union County. They motivated the class to be driven and find a place where they are passionate to thrive. Also, they discussed the opportunities the class has with obtaining scholarships with the USDA.

Union County Commissioner, Joyce Meltabarger, and City of Plainview Commissioner, Richard Phillips, defined their duties as elected officials within the county. Joyce and Richard are also Board Members of Leadership Union County.

For the final class session, Megan Cottrell, Assistant Registrar at Lincoln Memorial University, presented tips for being unique on transcripts and resumes. She emphasized paying attention to details and due dates. She advised the group to use their resources fully such as guidance counselors, teachers, parents, admissions, and personnel. Also at this class, Colleen Beeler, LUC President and ETRLA Board Member, shared Pat Summit’s Definite Dozen principals with the group and stresses the importance of saving money.

All classes were graciously held at UT Extension Union County as a partnership and resource to the community. Join us in sending congratulations to these outstanding youth members of our community and encouraging them to flourish in the many diverse perspectives they bring to future growth of our wonderful county. As Steve Jobs stated, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” Be a leader!