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Five Reasons Why Creativity Matters to Leaders • 21st Century Leadership: Are you digging in the right place? • Four Top Technology degrees for Today's Career Seekers • Tips to Turn Kids into Money Masters RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 1
Contents 6 Forty under 40 Introduction Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication that highlights every day people doing extraordinary things nationally and abroad. www.RuralLeaderMagazine.com Guest Contributors John Dentico Founder LeadSimm, LLC Kevin Eikenberry Leadership Guru The Kevin Eikenberry Group
7 Greetings RL Magazine's Forty Under 40 Top Four 11 Charlie Cowart 13 Scott Curry 15 Sasha T. Smith 17 Alvin Williams 20 Five Reasons Why Creativity Matters to Leaders 21 Forty under 40 Honorees
26 21st Century Leadership: Are you digging in the right place? 40 Leadership is lifeNot just a game 49 Four Top Technology Degrees for today's career seekers 51 Creating Your Own Personal Pension It's possible 53 Tips to Turn Kids into Money Masters at any Age 55 What's the Makers Movement about?
Dwight Gelowitz Entrepreneur Chris Ruisi Entrepreneur and Business Coach
Readers’ Forum Tell us what you think about our publication, if you have a great idea for a story, or to just share. We may print your comments in Rural Leader Magazine. By sending us your comments, you’re giving permission for us to call you for an interview. Please be sure to include your name, address, email address, and phone number so we can reach you. Write to us at info@RuralLeaderMagazine.com—
Help us find the next Best Small Town Restaurant! Call for nominations is ongoing. Nominate Today!!! Visit RuralLeaderMagazine.com for details. Like us on Facebook! Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, in English, or other languages, is prohibited without written consent. Send editorial ideas to Kuanita Murphy, PhD, Editor-in-Chief editor@ruralleadermagazine.com
Rural Leader Magazine, LLC 245 North Highland Avenue Northeast Suite #230-1010 Atlanta, Georgia 30307
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Editor’s Note
Photo Courtesy of TieFotos
Dear Reader, Once again, I am pleased to present to you the Second Annual Forty under Forty issue! I am so proud to showcase these phenomenial young leaders from Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. I am sure that you will be amazed at the level of talent, skill, and achievement represented (See page 11 and 21). Please join me in congratulating these awesome young leaders! Inside this edition, we also included another great batch of articles on leadership best practices. It is our hope that you are inspired, encouraged, and renewed. Sincerely,
Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Reader's Voice Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Awesome publication! Can't wait to until the Forty under 40 issue is released. —Mel W. Dothan, AL Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Thank you for the special feature article, Your Attitude, Your Choice. It was timely and highlighted great tips. —Kim L. Tallahassee, FL Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Thanks for another great issue. Enjoyed the article, Creative College Savings. My daughter is a high school freshman. She is excited about starting her scholarship search early. —Allana S. Nashville, TN
Dear Rural Leader Magazine, I saw a copy of last year's Small Town America's 100 Most Influential People. I just want to say thanks for recognizing people in small communities. The gesture is long overdue! —Sabrina T. Columbia, SC Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Thanks for another great issue! —John E. Cuthbert, GA Dear Rural Leader Magazine, I really enjoyed the article, How Self Confidence Impacts Your Leadership. I gained valuable tips to enhance my own. Thanks for a wonderful publication —Katherine I. Selma, AL
Dear Rural Leader Magazine, I am requesting more articles like Three Simple Steps to Reducing Your Taxable Income. The article was a great read choke full with valuable information. —Denise L. Savannah, GA Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Finding the hole in the boat: The Four Essentials of Strategic Thinking was powerful. Publish more like it. Thanks in advance. —Linda L. Seattle, WA Dear Rural Leader Magazine, Just wanted to drop a few lines to let you know: Rural Leader Magazine Rocks!!! —Rhianna K. Atlanta, GA
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Primary Care Internal Medicine Family Medicine Pediatrics Women’s Health Dentistry Podiatry Psychiatry Albany Area Primary Health Care is a multi-specialty physician group with offices in 6 counties across Southwest Georgia. We have more than 70 Providers who are accepting new patients and want to help you live a healthier - and longer - life. Albany Area Primary Health Care offers many services, including primary care, internal medicine, pediatrics, dentistry and podiatry. We take care of you from your head to your toes!
Albany Area Primary Health Care is here to care for our friends, family and neighbors in Southwest Georgia. Accepting New Patients! Learn more about AAPHC including our Providers and our office locations on our Web Site.
www.AAPHC.org 4 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
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Two Thousand Fifteen Honors Greetings, As editor of this great publication, I am pleased to present to you the 2015 Rural Leader Forty under Forty Honorees. The judges, once more, had the difficult task to select forty outstanding leaders from Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. The leaders represent the rich talent, skill, and vast knowledge that can be found in small town America. I was extremely impressed with the level of expertise and accomplishment found among this year's honorees. Their exemplary service to the people in small communities is a testament to their dedication. Without such leaders, who pour daily back into the essence of communities abroad, Small Town America would undoubtedly cease to thrive. Therefore, I am committed to acknowledging the efforts and contributions of leaders in small rural communities. I understand all too well the significance of their efforts. My hope is that the Forty under 40 Honors encourage young leaders in the knowledge that what they do each day matters. Without further ado, I present to you the 2015 Rural Leader 40 under 40 Honorees. P. S. Pictures of the top four Forty under 40 Honorees were taken in the park in historic Shellman, Georgia. Respectfully,
Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Editor-in-Chief and Publisher
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September 4, 2015 Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy Rural Leader Magazine 245 North Highland Avenue Northeast Suite #230-1010 Atlanta, Georgia 30307 Dear Dr. Murphy, It is with great pleasure that I offer my congratulations on the Second Annual Rural Leader Forty under Forty Honors. I applaud you for having esteem vision to acknowledge rural leaders in Small Town America. Please extend warm wishes to the forty exemplary young leaders from Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. They are an exceptional example of what it means to serve and to share their skills and talents for the greater good of community. I am confident that each will leave a legacy of service that will long grace this great Nation. Again, congratulations, and please accept best wishes for a memorable time of celebration.
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STATE OF GEORGIA OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR ATLANTA 30334-0900 Nathan Deal GOVERNOR
September 4, 2015
To: Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy GREETINGS: It is a pleasure to congratulate you on the Second Annual Rural Leader Forty under Forty Honors. Thank you for your efforts to recognize young leaders in small communities. I, too, realize the importance of acknowledging the outstanding contributions they give back daily. They each play an important role in the advancement of their State and communities. Furthermore, they have influenced the lives of many through service, and I respect and appreciate their commitment. I believe that we are stronger because of their dedicated efforts, and I extend my best wishes for continued success. Sincerely,
Nathan Deal
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GERALD GREENE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT #151 5805 U.S. HWY 82 WEST CUTHBERT, GEORGIA 39840 (229) 732-2750 (H) Email: gerald.greene@house.ga.gov
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES STATE CAPITOL, ROOM 131 ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30334 (404) 656-5116 (404) 656-9310 (FAX)
STANDING COMMITTEES:
APPROPRIATIONS (Vice Chairman) CODE REVISION (Chairman) ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM PUBLIC SAFETY & HOMELAND SECURITY RETIREMENT RULES STATE PROPERTIES (Secretary)
September 4, 2015
To: Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy: GREETINGS: I am proud to extend greetings and to congratulate you on the Second Annual Rural Leader Forty under Forty Honors. I applaud your efforts to champion young leaders in Small Town America. Thank you for your demonstrated commitment to recognize young leaders from Alabama, Florida and Georgia. This celebration of honor is one of the greatest in our State. Each have worked continuously to build and to sustain bridges of success. They are so deserving of this esteem honor for their exemplary leadership to provide the technical assistance, encouragement, inspiration, and motivation to the citizens of small communities. On behalf of House District 151, I wish you and the 2015 Forty under Forty Honorees many more years of success! Sincerely, State Representative
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Top Four
Charlie Cowart Age: 34 Hometown: Arlington, Georgia Profession: Business/Wine Maker
Charlie is a wine maker at Still Pond Vineyard and Winery, which is owned and operated by the Cowart’s family in Arlington, Georgia. His interest in agriculture began at an early age. Charlie was influenced by his grandfather, Charlie Cowart, Sr. The vineyard was started in the late 1960’s by Charlie’s late grandfather, who supplied wineries and grocers with fresh Muscadine grapes. In 2003, his mother and father started the winery, which gave him a job upon graduating college. In 2012, Charlie and his father started Still Pond Distillers, which produces distilled product from the fruit grown on their farm. Still Pond Vineyard has 180-acres of Muscadine grapes, which is no small accomplishment. It is the largest in the Southeast that produces wine and spirits distributed throughout Georgia. They also supply other wineries with fresh juice used to make their wines. Still Pond Vineyard continually increases its value by expanding product development.
As a result of Charlie’s leadership, Still Pond Vineyard continues to add value to what is grown by producing more products. There is no waste and every part of the berry is utilized, even the skin and seed that is sold to produce a nutricutical product. Still Pond is currently the only winery and distillery in the Southeastern United States in which all products are produced from what is grown. Charlie was named Georgia’s Outstanding Farmer in 2013. The Georgia’s Outstanding Young Farmer award is sponsored by John Deere, U.S. Junior Chamber of Commerce, Outstanding Farmers of America Fraternity, and the National Association of County Agricultural Agents. The award was presented at the annual banquet at the Lake Lanier Islands Resort in North Georgia in November 2013. Charlie holds a degree in marketing from Valdosta State University, and he is a 2010 Leadership Georgia Alum. He currently resides in Arlington with wife Stephanie and their son. —
Risings Stars in Rural America
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Top Four
Scott Curry Age: 37 Hometown: Shellman, Georgia Profession: Business
Scott currently is executive vice-president and vice-chairman of the Board of First State Bank of Randolph County--the youngest to serve in the State of Georgia. He is an Associate Partner of J.W. Walker Insurance Agency in Shellman. He is a member of both Community Bankers Association and the Georgia Bankers Association, and he serves on the Leadership board of both. Scott also serves as chairman of the Curry Memorial Scholarship Foundation, which is in memory of his older brother and provides a scholarship to a local senior who has been accepted to college and plans to return to the area to work and to live. While in high school and college, Scott had the opportunity to travel abroad on several occasions and studied the Roman/Greek architecture and Renaissance artwork, as well as the economies of the different countries and their sociology-economic theories, related to business ownership and welfare systems. He wrote essays about his experiences, his studies and these different practices and presented them to history, economics and literature classes. Scott notes that these travel experiences helped him understand
global macro & micro economics much better than just using text books alone. In addition, he gained appreciation of architectural and art styles in the United States and its heavy European influence. Scott serves as councilman and Mayor Pro-tem of the City of Shellman. He is a member who is active in civic, cultural and educational philanthropic boards that include the following: Rotary Club of Cuthbert as past-president; Randolph Veterans’ Association; Keep Randolph Beautiful; Randolph County Relay for Life; Randolph Arts Council: and Randolph County Historical Society. Scott promotes renovation and preservation of historic buildings in Shellman and conservation of resources. He assists in managing his father’s row-crop farm lease properties & timber lands and re-establishing quail habitats in Southwest Georgia. He enjoys bird hunting and target shooting. Scott is an active member of the First Baptist Church of Shellman. Regionally, he is also active in the Albany Museum of Art, a benefactor of the Junior League of Albany, Ducks Unlimited, Quail Unlimited and Quail Forever Foundation. Scott is a Magna Cum Laude
graduate of Georgia Southwestern University; Summa Cum Laude Graduate of Andrew College; and an Honor Graduate & Salutatorian of Randolph Southern School, where he was a member of the ’96 Club & Beta Club of Randolph Southern School. While at Andrew College, he was the recipient of the Andy Award Scholarship (4.0 GPA). Also, while at Georgia Southwestern University, he was the Recipient of Management & Financial Departmental Award. A HOPE & Governor’s Scholar, he had a full scholarship for his AS & BBA degrees. He obtained a limited license through University of Georgia for Insurance as well, after his undergraduate degrees were conveyed. Scott has served as a delegate to the state convention under Representative Gerald Greene & Senator Michael Meyer Von Bremen. He lobbies for community banks and customers in Atlanta through the CBA & GBA, which are trade organizations that in addition to lobbying, focus on consumer education and networking. Scott is a native of Shellman, GA, where he and wife, Brandi, and their two daughters: Lorraine, 4 and Ruthie, 7 months reside. —
Risings Stars in Rural America
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WINNER
Sasha T. Smith Sasha is 2001 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School. She holds an Associates of Arts degree in Elementary Education at Andrew College (2003); a Bachelor of Science degree (2006) and a Master of Education degree (2011) both in Elementary Education at Albany State University in GA. Sasha was born in Chertsey Surrey, England and raised in Miami Beach, Florida until age 7. Her family then relocated to Cuthbert. She is passionate about education and her students. Initially, Sasha desired to become a criminal profiler but reconsidered because of the time demand. She then decided to become an educator because she enjoyed helping others. More importantly, she was inspired by her mother, Denise Toney, who transitioned from a stay-at-home mom, to a paraprofessional, to an educator. Sasha's mother inspired her to strive to help students develop the necessary skills to lead productive lives. Sasha teaches general education students, as well as, individuals with learning challenges and special needs within a mainstreamed, inclusive classroom. Her vast knowledge and passion for education is demonstrated in the classroom. She enjoys interacting with students, parents, and other community stakeholders to encourage their involvement in education. Sasha understands that a warm, safe, and caring environ-
Age: 29 Hometown: Cuthbert, Georgia Profession: Education
ment is foremost to allow students to grow and to explore new concepts. Sasha’s passion for learning and students were the catalyst to her involvement in various activities, such as school committees, task forces focused on curriculum development, reading grants, and textbook review. She did not truly become aware of the passion for education until her fourth year of teaching, however. When she inquired of her students a question out of curiosity and to assess their needs: What does your teacher value? The responses moved her to tears as she realized that her students believed she genuinely cared for their well-being and success. Sasha describes teaching as a 24/7 profession, however, the rewards are monumental. Developing core values such as dignity, respect, perseverance, and determination to work diligently to acquire results are just a few of the expectations Sasha has for her students. She expects and encourages each student to have self confidence in everything. Their motivation and success fuels her passion for teaching. Sasha believes that each day is a journey filled with triumphs and trials, but it is those priceless moments that make teaching all well worth it. She is encouraged when former students describe the profound impact she had.
Throughout her tenure, Sasha has had students to be removed from their families and placed in foster care, lose parents in death, deal with the effects of domestic violence or poverty and just lose sight of the vision that was once held before them. She believes her duty is to bring a beacon of light back into their eyes and to be there when they feel alone. Daily, Sasha strives to make a positive difference in each of her students' lives. Therefore, she believes that the classroom is like a home, and she and the students are a family. So, she strives to create a learning environment that allows everyone to feel comfortable enough to lean upon each other for knowledge, support, and inspiration. Sasha employed her leadership ability to enhance not only her student learning, but also work environment. She supervised, trained, and utilized assistant teacher’s and volunteer’s skills abilities in the classroom to enhance student learning. She effectively utilized technology, such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, IPad2, Elmo, Animoto, Plickers, to improve student motivation and performance. Sasha was named 2015 Teacher of the Year at Saint Marys Elementary School in Columbus, GA, where she is currently employed. She resides in Cuthbert with her husband, Pharon and Adary, 11.—
Risings Stars in Rural America
Above and Beyond
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Top Four
Alvin Williams Age 32 Hometown: Edison, Georgia Profession: Education/Local Government
Alvin is a 2001 graduate of Calhoun County High School. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Communications (2005) from Alabama State University; and a Masters of Art and a Master of Education (2010) degree in Middle Grades Education both from Albany State University. In 2015, Alvin attained a degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Valdosta State University. Alvin also believes in giving back to community, therefore being a servant leader is foremost to Alvin. He believes the adage that to whom much is given, much is required. Whatismore, he cherishes the fact that he must live servant-hood. Serving others is the one of the highest forms of leadership. Armed with this knowledge and a strong desire to be a positive role model, in 2008, he decided to run for the school board to make a difference in the lives of children and families. Alvin was elected at the age of 25, becoming among the youngest in the state to serve in such capacity. He served as vice-chair from 2009-2012. Since January 2013, Alvin has served as chair. The Florida-born Georgia-bred leader is also a man of faith, who is involved in community. Alvin is a faithful member of Turner Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Edison. He currently serves this organization as a deacon. Alvin is also a summer league softball coach. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, and exercising. Alvin is also a former award-winning journalist. In 2004, he was awarded Best Sports Story, an Associated Press award, while working at a station in Montgomery, AL. He is also a freelance videographer, photographer, and public speaker. Currently, he is employed as a Broadcast Video Design Instructor by the Dougherty County Schools System. In this role, he strives to engage students in the use of multimedia to construct and convey knowledge with the integration of text, graphics, animation, sound, and video. He was inspired to pursue this career path after attending several career days while in Alabama. Consequently, Alvin discovered his passion for the medium and the joy of engaging with students.—
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We Proudly Salute The 2015 Rural Leader Forty Under 40 Honorees
Perkins Funeral Home Our Family Serving Your Family, Because We Care
Thomas J. Bailey, Jr., L.F. D. Mortician, Owner
153 Villa Nova Street Cuthbert, Georgia 39840 www.PerkinsFuneralService.com
229-732-3896
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Five Reasons Why Creativity Matter to Leaders By Kevin Eikenberry Two of the most popular topics of workshops and tum. business books are creativity and leadership. Creativity provides solutions. Have a problem? Both are popular because at some deep intuitive level (What business or organization does not?) Creativmost everyone knows they are both are worthwhile ity is required to determine the root cause of the skills to have and to develop. However, while both problem and to identify solutions. You can`t solve a are important and valued, they aren`t always talked problem with the same thinking that caused it. We about in tandem. need to bring our creativity to the table whenever we Does creativity require leadership? Not necessarily. are solving a problem. Does leadership require creativity? Only if you And One More...These first four reasons have want to be truly successful. Why is that? Why do the talked about the leadership value of creativity, but best leaders exhibit and use creativity to create great they have been largely focused on personal creativity. results? I can think of at least five reasons why the The last reason why creativity matters to leaders isn`t very best leaders are highly creative; any one of which about you but is about those you lead. should be reason enough for all leaders to focus on valuing and using creativity more often. Five Reasons Creativity Matters Creativity is inherent in the leadership role. I often say and write that the status quo requires no leadership. This is a profound truth. Everything about your role as a leader is about creating new and better results and moving in a direction towards a desired Creativity engages everyone and creates ownership. future. Without creativity it will be difficult to identi- In the end your creativity isn`t enough. A great fy that future destination, and impossible leader uses his/her creativity in private, but in public to reach it. While you may not have thought about it focuses first on engaging, encouraging and stimulatin these terms, you can`t successfully lead others to ing the creativity of others. Our job isn`t to come up any place new without the use of creativity. with the great idea on our own, but rather to create Creativity creates new ideas. Duh. But the obvian environment where great ideas and creativity is ous can`t be overlooked! Perhaps another way to nurtured and the ideas flow from the team. say this is that creativity allows us to take advantage If you want to improve your leadership skills and of opportunities. If you are leading people towards results – including your creativity – now is the time new product development, new markets, new anyto take advantage of The Remarkable Leadership thing, then leading with creativity is required! You Learning System – a one skill at a time, one month can`t achieve new things without new ideas, and as a at a time approach to becoming a more confident leader you must be at the front of thinking creatively and successful leader. You can get two months of about these opportunities. that unique system for free as part of our Most Re Creativity creates energy and momentum. Have markable Free Leadership Gift Ever today at http:// you ever gotten excited about a new idea? Have you MostRemarkableFreeLeadershipGiftEver.com – and ever felt the adrenaline rush and subsequent produc- become the leader you were born to be. tivity that comes with it? If you have, then you know About The Author exactly what I mean. When we are personally exerKevin is an author, speaker, trainer, consultant and cising our creativity, we get those short and long term the Chief Potential Officer of the Kevin Eikenberbursts of energy. More importantly, when we work ry Group. Learn more at KevinEikenberry.com, a with our teams in creative endeavors, the energy is learning consulting company that helps organizashared and expanded across the group, and that tions, teams and individuals unleash their leadership shared energy can create powerful forward momenpotential.— 20 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
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UNDER FORT Y
Letitia E. Bell, 38
Hometown: Plain, Georgia Profession: Criminal Justice Letitia was born and reared in Plains, Georgia, home of the 39th President. She earned an associate degree from Albany Technical College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice at Albany State University. Letitia graduated from Walden University in 2011 with a Master of Science degree in Psychology (2011). She began her career as a correctional officer at Macon State Prison in Oglethorpe, Georgia. Letitia loves her work and making a difference in the lives of others whenever possible. In 2014, Letitia was promoted to Chief Counselor at Autry State Prison in Pelham, Georgia.
Charlie Bradley, III, 39
Hometown: Waynesboro, Georgia Profession: Entrepreneur/Graphic Designer With an interest in art and science since the 4th grade, Charlie Bradley III turned the passion into a career of creativity. Art competitions and exceeding in science dotted the landscape of his early to teenage years. Charlie earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at Valdosta State University in 1998, with his focus mainly in the area of design. He began work in the newspaper industry as a graphic artist at the Valdosta Daily Times, South Georgia Printing facility in 1999, gaining experience in marketing, advertising and corporate communications while honing his design skills. In 2000, he accepted a position at The Augusta Chronicle as a graphic designer.
Risings Stars in Rural America
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Risings Stars in Rural America
Above and Beyond While there Charlie advanced within the company, working in their retail & classified advertising departments and production department. During his time with The Augusta Chronicle, Charlie won 11 Georgia Press Association Awards for his adverting designs. In 2007, Charlie decided to go the independent route and start his own small business, Third Designs. Third Designs specializes in fine art, graphic design, and photography with a cliental from the Augusta, Georgia area and throughout the United States. As a graphic designer, Charlie creates logo designs, print page designs, publication layouts, marketing & advertising designs, copywriting, digital & freehand illustration, photography, social media marketing, web graphics preparation, and web coding and design. He has a loyal following on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and various other social media platforms. In addition to operating Third Designs, Charlie works also with a local media company in Augusta as a member of their creative services team as a graphic designer. What is more, Charlie is very active in creative, entrepreneurial, technology, and networking organization in the Augusta area. He is also an advocate for education. Charlie speaks at local schools about the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) education and careers. Charlie is happily married to his wife, Shirley, of 15 years, and together they have three children. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, painting and photography. —
Paul Bronson, 28
Hometown: Macon, Georgia Profession: Entrepreneur/Community Activist Paul Williams Bronson is the son of Kenneth and Carita Bronson of Macon, Georgia. Mr. Bronson is a young entrepreneur with a vision to better his home town one district at a time. Since 2001, he has worked to better himself through educational advancement and leadership development. Mr. Bronson served his community as a Fire Fighter for Bibb County, while attending Georgia Military College. While still attending Central High School, he signed an early enlistment contract with the Georgia Army National Guard, and later switched to the U.S. Army Reserves at the rank of Captain under the Army Medical Department. Recently, Paul earning his Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Fort Valley State University, and he is now pursuing his PhD in Clinical Medical Psychology. Mr. Bronson is focused on serving those who have served, but extends that same drive in bettering his community as well. His involvement in the community led him to run for the office of Mayor of Macon in 2011, elected as a delegate for the state of Georgia in 2012, and recently selected for the White House 2015 Internship Program under the Office of Presidential Personnel. Through his development, Paul is now the CEO and President of King’s Men Foundation, Inc. that aims to mentor, lead, and develop the young men of Georgia, 22 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
Risings Stars in Rural America
Above and Beyond and looks to promote change and equality across the nation and motivate others to see that they are powerful beyond measure.—
Valarie Burke, 23
receive the CPA license after completing two years of public accounting experience—
Keisha Burks, 37
Hometown: Benevolence, Georgia Hometown: Bainbridge, GA Profession: Nonprofit Administration Profession: Accountant Keisha is the daughter of Bennie and Dorothea Valarie Burke is an auditor for one of the world’s Burks, and she is a 1996 graduate of Randolph-Clay leading public accounting firms, Price Waterhouse High School. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree Coopers, LLP. Valarie is practicing accountancy as a in Organizational Management (2014) from Ashford risk assurance associate in Charlotte, NC, specifically University and an Associates in Business Administraproviding process assurance for financial services tive Technology at Albany Technical College. Curclients. Valarie has a great work ethic and has always rently, she is pursuing a Master of Science degree in gone above and beyond to put forth her best. Early Childhood Studies-Teaching and Diversity in Valarie's contributions to the community focus Early Childhood Education from Walden University. on youth education and financial literacy. She has Though she has no biological children, she has a participated in Junior Achievement in affiliation with passion for children. Several years ago, she became a her collegiate organization and employer. Valarie also foster parent as way to give back to children in need. demonstrates her leadership ability by joining efforts Recently, she adopted three children and presently within her firm to promote diversity through race, fostering three. gender, and culture. Keisha is a Leadership Randolph, Regional Eco Valarie received both her Bachelor of Business Ad- nomic Leadersip Development, and an Academy for ministration in Accounting and Master of Accountthe Association County Commissioners of Georgia ing degrees from Georgia Southern University, where (ACCG) Leadership Aluma. She is also a Certified she was a student from the years 2009 - 2014. Valarie Local Government Finance Officer II via the Carl graduated from graduate school while maintainVinson Institute of Government. ing a 3.75 GPA. During her collegiate years, Valarie Keisha strives to utlize her leadership skills to serbecame a member of both Beta Alpha Psi Fraternivice to others. Therefore, she is also very active in her ty and Delta Sigma Pi Fraternity, where she served community. She is an active member of Benevolence various leadership roles. Baptist Church. She serves as the church’s assistant Upon graduation, Valarie completed the Certified secretary and member of the young adult choir. Public Accountant (CPA) exam and will be eligible to She is also the vice president of the Street PhanRuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 23
toms Motorcycle Club, where she serves as vice president. The Street Phantoms Motorcycle Club actively sponsors and supports community events, such as visiting local nursing homes, raising funds to support Breast Cancer Awareness, and visiting local schools reading books to children. Keisha also volunteers at Randolph County Head Start. She served as Policy Council Chair and secretary to the parent organization. In addition to being a mother of six, a student, and a community volunteer, Keisha works full-time at Volunteers of America as an Administrative Assistant and Property Managerat the Millenniem Center in Cuthbert. .—
twelve years. Derrick’s accolades are extensive. He is the recipient of the Boys and Girls Club Best Teen Program in the State of Georgia for two consecutive years (2002 and 2003). He is the recipient of the Best Teen Director award (2008-2010). In 2010, Derrick received the Boys and Girls Club Association National Honor Award for Program Excellence in sports, fitness, and recreation. In 2014, he received two Boys and Girls Club Association National Honors for Program of the Year for best program and in education. In 2015, Derrick also became the Healthy Lifestyles Director for the Boys and Girls Club of Hall County. In this capacity he is responsible for member safety, program development, implementing membership best practices, and building member-relationships.—
Derrick Caldwell, 37
Hometown: Gainsville, GA Profession: Nonprofit Management Derrick is an all-around go-getter. He is holds a Bachelor of Science degree at West Texas A&M University in General Studies and holds an associate degree in education (1998) at Allan Hancock Community College. He also has certifications in peer counseling; and certifications in the Boys and Girls Club of America Advanced Leadership (2008) and the Learning Club, Boys and Girls Club of America. Derrick serves currently as the Unit Director for the Teen Center at the Boys and Girls Club of Hall County, Georgia, since 2004. Derrick employs his extensive leadership skills daily to plan and to oversee the administration of clubhouse programs and activities that support youth development outcomes for over 200 youth and teens. His exemplary leadership skills were instrumental to the growth of the club’s growth from 800-2,900 member-units in less than 5 years, which exceeded the membership target for the first year. He also built and successfully maintains a strong relationship with the Atlanta Falcons Boy mentor program, for the past
Darius Carswell, 38
Hometown: Irvington, Georgia Profession: Athlete/Human Services Consultant Darius grew up in Irwinton Georgia attended the public school system and later Brewton Parker College and began his professional career working in the field of human service sector; with the Methodist Home for Children and Youth, The Phoenix Center BHS for nine and a half years, and most recently as the Family Life and Sex Ed. Coordinator for Morehouse School of Medicine’s Carrera Program. His passion directed him to work with a wide range of clients from Corporate America to elementary age students. Darius continues to serve in the field of human service as an independent consultant for organizations, school districts and faith groups seeking to convey the message of substance abuse awareness and prevention, as well as teenage pregnancy prevention. During his tenure at Brewton Parker College, 24 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
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his energy as an athlete was directed to the sport of baseball. Based on his dedication to the sport, he later went on to play in a few semi-pro leagues, which awarded him extensive travel throughout the United States playing competitive softball. Darius has received two World Championships in the past three seasons. Darius and his wife reside in Bonaire, Georgia. They have been blessed with three energetic daughters. Along with softball his passion for hunting, fishing, and painting provide refuge and support.—
Beth Davis, 36
Fadara Clark, 36
Hometown: Cuthbert, Georgia Profession: Educator Fadara is a 1997 graduate of Randolph Clay High School. She is the daughter of Fady Clark and the late Georgia Clark. She holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in early childhood education at Albany State University. She enjoys teaching and mentoring young people. After her mother’s passing in October 2013, Fadara created a program, Camp Georgia for Kids, that would exemplify the essence of her mother’s passion for teaching and a testament to the young people she inspired. Camp Georgia serves youth ages 5-13 for four weeks during the summer. Participants receive tutoring in math and reading, mentoring, and fun-activities, such as art and dance. Camp Georgia provides much needed safe and structured activities for youth in the small rural community of Randolph County.—
Hometown: Parrot, Georgia Profession: Higher Education Beth holds an Associate of Science degree in Psychology (2003) from Middle Georgia College, a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology (2003) at Georgia Southwestern State University, and a Masters of Post-Secondary Education with a concentration in Higher Education Administration and Psychology (2011) at Troy State University. Beth has over eight years of experience in higher education. She is a Six Sigma Green Belt in Quality Assurance Specialist and the Quality Group and Albany Technical College (ATC). She was 2011 Employee of the Year at ATC. She also received Albany Tech Internal Customer Service training (2008). She is a member of the Georgia Association of International Educators (GAIE), Georgia Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (GACRAO), and the Georgia College Testing Association (GCTA). She is involved in her work environment. She was a member of ATC’s Achieving the Dream Data Team (2012-2013), Student Disciplinary (2009-(2011). She also volunteers for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life and Rotary International-Rotary Club of Cuthbert. Beth is currently the Director of Student Affairs at Albany Technical College-Randolph County Learning Center in Cuthbert. She and her husband Duane reside in Cuthbert. —
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21st Century Leadership: Are You Digging In The Right Place? By John Dentico
Complexity, rapid change, information overload, meaningful work and endeavors, enormously difficult decisions and a global economic malaise are but a few of the daunting challenges that face people in organizations today. Perhaps no time in history has the need for bold and effective leadership been more needed, demanded or required. Yet it seems the ability to respond to this call for leadership is inadequate because by some expert accounts leadership development is going nowhere fast. These are the findings of the last two biennial global leadership forecasts conducted by Development Dimensions International where on average more than 14,000 executives and HR managers from over 70 countries were surveyed. Just think of it, after spending billions of dollars on talent management initiatives, on behavioral screening, on performance measurement equations and metrics, leadership development is going nowhere fast? How can this be? Where are the leaders, where is the leadership? Perhaps the answer lays in a lesson from the movie Indiana Jones and The Raiders of the Lost Arc. As Indy and Sallah learned when they searched for the Well of the Souls in hopes of finding the Arc of the Covenant, make sure your digging in the right place! Say the word leadership and it means different things to different people even though many are drawn to the notion of a positional or heroic leader. In 1978 James MacGregor Burns, the patriarch of leadership thought in America, wrote that the predominant leadership approach tends often uncon-
sciously to be elitist; it projects heroic figures against the shadowy background of drab powerless, masses. In the idea economy, where Peter Drucker has pronounced the knowledge worker as the leading class, this notion of leadership is an aberration completely out of touch with the reality of today’s world. Have you been on the Internet lately-- not a really drab and powerless place? Yet it seems we continue to dig in the same place although at a frenzied pace. That place is marked by a factory mindset--an industrial perspective portrayed as an indescribable set of traits fully owned by the leader who sits at the top of the organization. In the factory mindset, whatever the leader does is leadership. All we have to do is make better leaders follow their orders and we will be saved! The fact is that the ideas and principles of the leadership models built for industrial times are grossly limited and in-congruent for an interconnected, extremely aware, technology and information enraptured society. A society that is surrounded by rapid complex change and charged with making infinitely difficult decisions and who, at the core of its being, seeks purpose and meaning from the work it does. In this environment, the job of leaders is changing dramatically as innovation, leadership and learning at all levels of an organization have become the lynchpins of creative success. 21st century leadership must focus on melding a multitude of diverse talent Continued on page 29
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Nakoasha “Nikki” Dillard, 28
Hometown: Albany, Georgia Profession: Author/Social Services Nakoasha, or Nikki as she is called by friends, is an Albany, Georgia native whose newly released book, “Surviving College While Raising a Toddler” is an inspiring account of a young woman’s ability to journey through the challenges of being a single parent while pursuing higher education. With ambition and determination to excel, she earned an Associate of Science Degree from Darton State College, a second associate’s degree from Albany Technical College, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Albany State University, within 4 years. Nakoasha is also a recent graduate of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Strive2Thrive Community Initiative that is designed to support the transition of local families into self-sufficiency and prosperity via life coaching, personal and professional development, education, training, and community service. Post-graduation, Nakoasha accepted the charge to serve as a Lead Coach for Strive2Thrive families. Her participation in Strive2Thrive, commitment to youth development and outreach programs at Rhema Word Cathedral has proven to be a great base for what would soon become a movement. Her spiritual foundation, story of hardships, and triumphs serve as her platform as an Author, Advocate, and “Overkomer”. Nakoasha activates her passion to effectively impact the lives of young women in the area of positive character building through “Project OverKome. She participates in seminars, and workshops hosted by community organizations,
high Schools, colleges, and universities across Georgia, with the message that trials ultimately become triumph. Nakoasha’s efforts serve as an inspiration to single mothers of all ages; reminding women that no matter what life brings, one should always embrace the unexpected. With her incessant desire for higher education, Nakoasha is currently pursuing a Master of Public Health (M.P.H.), and has future aspirations of earning a Degree in Epidemiology. Above all, her passion to build sustainable communities has driven her dedication to understand, develop, and empower women and youth to become transformative citizens. She aspires to stay connected with local organizations and activities that uplift young women and reflect positivity in the community. She currently resides in Albany, Georgia with her son Cayden.—
Robert Goodman, 39
Hometown: Cuthbert, Georgia Profession: Business Finance Robert graduated from Randolph-Clay High School in 1994. He was an honor graduate who received numerous awards related to both academics and sports. In high school, Robert received the Rotary Service Above Self Award. Later, he attended and graduated from Valdosta State University in 1999 with a degree in business marketing. While at Valdosta State University, he served as the VSU Football Team Equipment Manager from 1994 – 1998, working with Coaches Hal Mumme, Mike Leach, Dana Holgerson and Chris Hatcher. He also held an office in the Kappa Alpha Order serving as Parliamentarian his senior year and received the Kappa Alpha Order Gentleman of the
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Year Award. Following graduation from VSU, he worked for Applied Industrial Technology for 3 years, initially working in Customer Service and was promoted to the Service Center Manager after one year. From 2002 until 2014, Robert was employed with Occidental Benefits (Employee Benefits) as their Broker/ Consultant, where he managed, serviced and sold employee benefits to employers from 50-2000 employees. He played a major role in growing this company from a book of business of $250K to over $1million. Occidental Benefits was acquired by Regions Insurance March 2014 and Robert became an Employee Benefits Broker and Consultant. This transition moved him into a production role and out of the managing and servicing aspect of the business. Robert notes that this has been a beneficial move in his career because it has allowed him to grow personally and to better serve his clients with a very diverse support staff of Senior HR professionals. Robert is a member of the National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU). The Birmingham local chapter, Robert served as the 2010 Education Committee Chair, the 2011 Legislative Chair, the 2012 & 2013 President Elect, and is currently President. In the Alabama State Chapter, Robert served as the 2011 Education Committee Chair, 2012 Legislative Chair, 2013 Legislative and HUPAC Chair, and in 2014 & 2015 he is the President Elect. Serving in these leadership roles, Robert has attended the National Association Capital Conference from 2012 to present, where he meets with elected officials and staff to educate them on the industry and discuss bipartisan bills being introduced in the House and Senate they should co-sponsor and support. In 2013 and 2014, Robert achieved the distinguished recognition of Leading Producers Round Table (LPRT). Robert is a man of faith. He is a member of River Chase United Methodist Church. Along with his wife, Heidi, he organized a young families group to enhance fellowship. He also taught a Sunday School class for the last three years. Recently, he was asked to serve on the Board of Stewards. Robert serves on the board of Live for Love, which is a local community non-profit outreach ministry. He is also a member of the National Association of Health Underwriters where he has served and continues to serve in a leadership position in both the
Birmingham and Alabama Chapter. Robert currently lives in Helena, AL, with his wife Heidi Sapp Goodman from Vidalia, GA and their 2 children, Anna Beth, 8 and Jack, 6. —
Shavon Goodwin, 34
Hometown: Powder Springs, Georgia Profession: Author/Entrepreneur Shavon Goodwin is a savvy mother of six with a business acumen and a drive for success. Though she has a background in cosmetology, Shavon has become relatively a jack-of-all trades utilizing life challenges as a stepping stone to a greater future. Shavon has overcome so much in life that she openly shares her testimony with others. It her hope to inspire others to strive for excellence. She is the proud author of A Princess in Me, a children’s book that was released in the spring of 2014. Shavon is also the co-author of Simply Beautiful 2, which will be released 2016. Also to be released in 2016, is her new book called, Maintain My Frame, which details how to maintain a healthy lifestyle She is currently working on her first autobiography that will be released in 2017 entitled, When you know you have a purpose. If book writing were not enough, Shavon is trying her hand a playwriting as well. She is working on her first state play entitled, Wretch Like Me. Her faith is a strong component in her life. Shavon is a faithful member of Burnt Hickory Baptist Church. There she serves as part of the church’s hospital Continued on page 31
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21st Century Leadership, cont'd from page 26 and individual ability into collaborative, interdepen dent, and unified action capable of addressing the most complex and intractable issues and challenges. The challenge for all 21st century leaders is to create environments built on mutual trust and continuous learning where participants in these leadership-dynamics are fully engaged, derive meaning, take ownership and responsibility for the results, and come to do their best work each and everyday. In the 21st Century, organizations must expand their thinking and act outside of the box with a notion of leadership that views participants as fully involved partners that bring talent, energy, creativity
and combined action to bear on the issues at hand. In the 21st Century leadership is no longer a noun, but a verb where the actions of a committed group of people teach us that leadership is what people do together. Perhaps, it has always been so. Now, start digging!— About The Author Dr. John Dentico is a leadership development and simulation-learning expert who speaks, writes, consults and trains 21st Century leaders. He is the founder of LeadSimm LLC a one-of-a-kind 21st Century leadership development and simulation learning company.
We all live under the same sky, but we don't all have the same horizon.— Konrad Adenauer RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 29
Leadership – Let Me Give it to You As Straight As I Can By Chris Ruisi
If you’re like me, you recognize that becoming an effective leader demands hard work and commitment. It requires more than just reading but actual “doing” and learning from your experiences. Sometimes when we are in the “doing” mode we forget some of what we have read and then realize after the dust settles that there was a different or additional technique that you should have tried. At times like this, I wish that I had a “pocket reminder” so that when it gets confusing I would have a simple guide to help me. Having said this, I am not suggesting that there is either a simple or “one size fits all” approach to leadership. As I said several lines up - “becoming an effective leader demands hard work and commitment on your part. It requires more than just reading but actual “doing” and learning from your experiences”. But, if a simple pocket reminder helps you on your leadership development journey, then so be it; as the title of this post reads, “let me give it to you as straight as Ican”. I looked back over my 35+ years of corporate experience and every leadership position I have held and have come up with these five traits that, when all else failed, helped get the leadership job done each time: • Listening - one of the most important standards I
set for any team I lead was that it was impossible for them to “over-communicate” with me. I found that when my team could see that I was genuinely interested in what they had to say, the quality of their communications improved. • Being in the game 100% of the time - wherever I was, regardless of the topic or situation, I was there 100% or as some would say, “I was in the present”. Nothing would distract me from the task at hand. Some would say “Come on Chris, get real! All leaders have lots on their mind”. That’s true but multi tasking at the wrong time can be “multi dumb”! Missing one key element in a situation could prove to be a disastrous surprise later on. And guess who would be responsible for it? You! • Preparation - this is the simplest of all leadership traits to develop, yet it is the one that most “would be” leaders fail to properly address. The ability to prepare is one of the most important habits you can develop, nurture and maintain. You would be amazed at how simple things become when you take the time to prepare for what needs to be done. • Have an open mind - I found that I was most effective when I would try to identify othe elevant options. It was my job to choose the right option or course. To do that, I had to keep an open Cont'd on page 52
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Goodwin, cont'd from page 28 ministry. Shavon also the team leader of the church’s group called Anchored, which is a group for young mothers. She also serves as a mentor for a teen mom group called Moms for Moms at Marietta High School Georgia. Shavon is also featured in a documentary entitled Head Ladies in Charge (HLIC), which is now playing in select theatres across the country. She currently resides in Powder Springs, Georgia with her six beautiful children: De’Aira, 17, De’Asia, 12, De’Auna, 11, DaMaya, 7, Destiny, 4, and Divine, 2. Learn more about her business on her blog at ResilenTempress. EmpowerNetwork.com.—
Jeffrey Haynes, 36
Hometown: Arlington, Georgia Profession: Ministry/Entrepreneur/Local Gov't The Honorable Commissioner Jeffery Haynes is not only a diligent, hardworking businessman; but respectfully, an active political activist in his community. Pastor Jeffery Haynes credits his unwavering faith in God as a factor to the numerous successes in business, in the church, and in the community. Born the second of five siblings to Jerome Haynes, Sr. of Blakely, GA and Joyce Ann Hope of Albany, Georgia, Haynes knew struggle at a very early age. When he was two years old, Haynes spent months going back and forward to hospitals as he wrestled with the sick-a-cell trait. Doctors originally thought
that he would not live very long, but due to the prayers of his mother and grandmother, Annie Lyles, Haynes spent most of his youth in the church, singing. After overcoming leg braces and severe sickness, Haynes would later graduate the top 10% of his class at Calhoun County High School. Haynes graduated with honors and also received several awards including Senior Superlative, voted Most Likely To Succeed by his class, the Academic Scholar Award (student-athlete with the highest gpa), and led his tennis team to top eight in the state. Haynes would later play college tennis at Darton College in Albany, Georgia. Haynes received his AA in Early Childhood Education, his AA in Early Childhood Program Management, and his AA in Early Childhood Specialities from Albany Technical College. He is the owner of Jeff ’s Furniture Stores in Blakely, Moultrie, and Cuthbert, Georgia. He is the Senior Pastor of the New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church of Fort Gaines, Georgia and the Senior Pastor of the Saint Mathis Missionary Baptist Church of Blakely, Georgia. Haynes was the first African-American elected to the Early County Board of Commissioners in 2012. He was also the first African-American to receive certification from the University of Georgia. He presently serves as the only certified commissioner on the sitting board. Haynes has served on the Early County Public Safety Board since 2012 and was elected Chairman of the Board 2015. He also helped form the 5th Sunday Union, a group of seven churches working together in Early County to bring economic and social change. Currently, Haynes is married to Jessica Lanette Cannon-Haynes of Arlington, Georgia. Together they have eight children whom are all gifted and talented not only in academics, but music as well. Haynes believes in teaching and practicing strong family values. He feels that families are the key to bringing the nation together and building back our communities. Haynes believes that in all that he does, he considers servanthood an honor. He believes to serve his fellow man before self is a reward enough in all that he does.—
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Angela H. Jackson, 36
Hometown: Cuthbert, Georgia Profession: Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Angela is a 1995 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from St. Leo University (1998). She has been in law enforcement for the past 17 years as a prison and community supervisor. In this role, her supervision duties ranged from correctional officer, corrections sergeant, counselor, and most recently Senior Parole Officer. She was named Department of Corrections Officer of the Year in 2004. Angela’s passion is to help the judicial system with its efforts to reduce the recidivism rate of convicted felons within in the community and in the prison population. Angela received a number of advanced training and certifications throughout her law enforcement career. Thus, her contributions are vast within the law enforcement community. She coordinates and facilitates Substance Abuse and MRT (Moral Reconation Therapy) courses. The course is designed to provide rehabilitation and to assist the offender with utilizing his or her cognitive skills with an effort to reduce recidivism. Angela was nominated as the lead MRT coordinator for the Northeast District #26 office in 2014. In January 2015, Angela was promoted to Field Training Officer (FTO) for the Northeast Metro Region in Atlanta, Georgia. Her duties as FTO duties consist of training newly hired officers for the Georgia Board of Pardons and Parole. Angela is married to George and together they have three children: Geornecia, Geordan, and Georiah.—
Kwanjalein Jackson, 37
Hometown: Fort Gaines, Georgia Profession: Educator Kwanjalein was born in Miami, Florida but grew up in the quaint town of Fort Gaines, Georgia. In 1996, she graduated from Randolph Clay High School. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Education at Albany State University (2001). In 2008, she earned a Master’s of Science degree in Education at Troy State University in Phenix, Alabama. Kwanjalein loves working with young people, so she decided to become a teacher. She taught at Randolph County Elementary School for eleven years. During her tenure at RCES, she was named Afterschool Program Teacher of the Year (2010-11). She believes that all students are capable of learning; and that all student achievement is dependent on several key factors: a conducive learning environment, an effective teacher, differentiated instruction, and technological assistance. She believes that if the above factors are evident, learning will occur. Kwanjalein is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In 2015, She was named Teacher of the Year at Clay County Elementary School in Fort Gaines, Georgia, where she currently teaches math and science.—
A true leader is humble enough to admit his mistake.-Unknown
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Name: Jennifer Jenkins Age: 32 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Profession: Educator/Entrepreneur Jennifer is the daughter of Susie and Phillip Shaw and Mr. and Mrs. Tommie Atkinson. She is also the granddaughter of Carol L. Peterson and the late Kenneth E. Peterson of Cuthbert and Mr. and Mrs. Leon Brown of Cuthbert and Felix Atkinson of Mobile, Alabama. She is a 2001 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School. She graduated in 2005 from Valdosta State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. In 2010, she graduated from Albany State University with a master’s degree in early chilhood education. She loves teaching and giving back to others. She was also a kindergarten teacher at Randolph County Elementary School in Cuthbert for six years and was nominated for Teacher of the Year. Jennifer is very involved in her community and is an active member of Enterprise Baptist Church. There she serves as the praise and worship leader, teaches youth Sunday school, and art and crafts for Vacation Bible School. In her spare time, she enjoys singing, gardening, beach trips, and painting. She and her husband started their own business, The Pink Barn, which spealizes in making custom wood projects and door hangers. Currently, Jennifer is serving her 4th year as a Kindergarten/First Grade loop at Pataula Charter Academy in Edison, Georgia. She is also the vice president of PTO and co-chair of PCA's Relay for Life team. She currently resides in Edison, Georgia with her husband Eric and two children: Owen, 4 and Maddox, 2. —
Name: Britney Johnson Age: 26 Hometown: Shellman, GA Profession: Business/Non-profit Founder Britney is very involved in her community and enjoys mentoring youth. She graduated valedictorian of Randolph Clay High School in 2007. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Fort Valley State University (2011) and a MBA in accounting (2015) at Albany State University. Britney founded P.L.U.T.O. in 2012, which stands for Peer Leaders Undermining Today’s Obstacles. Initially, the program’s goal was to establish an education outreach for high school juniors and seniors within the Randolph County School System. However, her vision grew to help educate youth about educational opportunities available after high school. Thus, the program offers ACT/SAT tutorials and visitation to higher learning institutions. Tutoring and mentoring are important components of P.L.U.T.O. The program provides tutoring and mentoring services for children ages 8-17 in the Randolph County area. Tutoring is available in courses, such as math, reading, language arts, science, and social studies. The mentoring sessions focus on career advisement, personal fitness, mental health, and social health. In 2014, a P.L.U.T.O. Scholarship awarded to a deserving high school senior. Britney is currently employed as the Chief Financial Officer with the Randolph County Board of Education.—
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Name: William Roderick Lewis, II Age: 23 Hometown: Tallahassee, Florida Profession: Information Technology William is an outstanding young man who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and ability. He graduated from Florida State University in 2015 with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Information Technology. William has an extraordinary talent with technology. He has received many laudatory remarks and comments from his supervisors for his outstanding work with Apple, Inc., the College of Engineering at Florida State University and his current involvement with the Florida Dental Association, where he is the Helpdesk Technician and Database Administrator. William is the son of Lieutenant Colonel William Lewis and Joyce Lewis. He has one sister, Tonya Brooks. He is also the grandson of Minnie R. Lewis of Cuthbert and the late William J. Lewis of Bainbridge, Georgia. William currently resides in Tallahassee, Florida.—
Name: Joshua Minich Age: 30 Hometown: Americus, GA Profession: Registered Nurse Joshua, or Josh as he is known by family and friends, is an awesome servant leader. He graduated from Americus High School in 2003. Later, he graduated Cum Laude both with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology (2008)and in Nursing (2015) from Georgia Southwestern State University. Josh also holds a master’s degree in community counseling (2012) from Columbus State University. While working on his undergraduate degree he was an active member of Chi Phi fraternity, which was selected by the GSW faculty as the most outstanding campus organization at least once while he was president. He was also a member of the Varsity Soccer Team, the GSW Orientation Team, and president of the Hurricane Watch, a student produced video organization. Josh is also active in the community and his church, First Presbyterian Church of Americus. In addition to his work as a Nurse, Josh is the Director of the Campus Ministry for the Presbyterian Student Center at Georgia Southwestern State University that is also know as the "Pres House." There he works with a diverse group of undergraduate students as they manage the pressure of college life and living on their own for the first time. He also coaches and plays for an adult recreational league. Josh is currently a Registered Nurse in the Critical Care Unit at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, where he resides with his wife and son Conrad.—
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Name: Amber Murphy Age: 28 Hometown: Reynolds, Georgia Profession: Higher Education Amber loves people, working hard, learning new things, and giving back to community. She is a graduate of Taylor County High School. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Mercer University. Amber completed a Master of Education degree in Higher Education-Enrollment Management from Capella University. Amber is a Life Member of Alpha Phi Omega Service Fraternity. She serves on a number of organizations, such as the Taylor County School System’s Career, Technical, and Agriculture Education (also known as CTAE) Advisory Committee. Within this role, Amber promotes college readiness and job acquisition skills through resume building workshops. In addition to supporting the K-12 sector of education, Amber also supports adult literacy through partnering with the Taylor County Certified Literacy Commission with the Certified Literate Community Program (CLCP). Amber’s leadership also extends into business and industry. She currently serves as the vice-chair of the Taylor County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. By working closely with the Chamber of Commerce, Amber works diligently to develop partnerships with businesses to not only educate their employees, but also to establish and to strengthen community partnerships. Amber played a collaborative role in workforce and economic development through Taylor County’s Certified Work Ready Community initiative. Aside from her commitment to her community
through work and service organizations, Amber is a co-founder, with her fiancé, of Give Specific. Give Specific emerged to be a source of support for efforts that enlighten, educate, train, enhance, and maintain the people in communities both local and abroad. Amber is currently a doctoral candidate in a Doctor of Philosophy program specializing in Leadership for Higher Education at Capella University. She is currently completing her dissertation focusing on the leadership attributes and experiences of 12 African American male college and university presidents. As a multi-state study, Amber’s dissertation encompasses lived experiences of new and long serving college and university presidents across three states including two and four year colleges and universities. Tied directly to her capacity at Southern Crescent Technical College, it is her hope to add to the body of knowledge focusing on African American males in higher education leadership in an effort to encourage African American male students, whom are often underrepresented, to complete college and pursue higher education leadership. Amber is currently employed at Southern Crescent Technical College, where she serves as a member of the institution’s Strategic Planning and Retention Committee. For the past 5 years, she has been responsible for daily operations at satellite center, managing the budget, class scheduling and placement testing, and serving as a SCTC liaison to the community. She has worked in various departments, including Academic Affairs, Office of the Provost, and most recently, Economic Development. —
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Congratulations 2015 Rural Leader 40 under 40 Honorees
Congratulations 2015 Rural Leader Forty under 40 Honorees
Brad Stafford, Owner Six Locations Near You 523 Forrester Drive Southeast Dawson, Georgia 39842
229-995-6493
www.Badcock.com Albany ~ Americus~Columbus Cordele~Sylvester
Steven S. Whatley Presidnet
400 Whitaker Ave. P.O. Box 1336 Columbus, GA 31902 706-324-4271 Fax 706-324-4276
Congratulations 2015 Rural Leader Forty under 40 Honorees Chief Bobby Wiggins Cuthbert Police Department
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598 Blakely St. P. O. Box 505 Cuthbert, GA 39840 229-732-5608 Fax 229-732-5328
event. Ruchelle currently lives in Deerfield Beach, Florida, where she teaches seventh and eighth grade Language Arts at Deerfield Beach Middle School.—
Name: Ruchelle L. Priester Age: 26 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Profession: Educator Ruchelle is the daughter of Michelle Gadson and the late Luther Priester. She is a 2007 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School, and she not only loves her hometown but is also passionate about teaching. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (2012). She strives to be the teacher who connects with and cares for students. During her first year as a teacher, Ruchelle is well-versed on maximizing effective teaching strategies through Marzano. Marzano Research, is a joint venture between Robert J. Marzano, PhD and the Solution Tree, combines Dr. Marzano’s 40 years of educational research with continuous action research in all major areas of schooling in order to provide effective and accessible instructional strategies, leadership strategies, and classroom assessment strategies that are always at the forefront of best practice. Ruchelle showcased her knowledge via the school-wide newspaper on three occasions. Ruchelle understands that hard work does not always guarantee success. Nonetheless, she is motivated to do her best in all endeavors and to be a role model for others. She gives back to her community in a number of ways. She is a volunteer counselor for Camp Georgia, a local summer youth program. Ruchelle and her friends offer free makeover contests for high school juniors and seniors during the prom season to help them prepare for the special
Name: Milton Bernard Reese Age: 29 Hometown: Dawson, GA Profession: Higher Education Milton is a modern day leader who takes on the responsibility to help learners discover new skills and knowledge pertinent to becoming successful. He is the son of Betty Reese and Milton Johnson, and he is the grandson of Mamie Reese, all of Dawson. He is 2004 Honor Graduate of Terrell Middle High School. He holds a bachelors (2008), a masters (2009), and specialist (2011) degrees from Albany State University. He also holds a Reading, Gifted, and ESOL Certificates as well. Milton also holds a Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction from NOVA Southeastern University. Milton is also a published author. He co-wrote a research journal entitled the Albany State Leadership Interdisciplinary Journal. He also serves on the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators ® (GACE) Bias Committee by the Professional Standard Commission (PSC). He is a member of GAE, PAGE, NAACP, and serves as President of the Christopher B. Hall Scholarship Foundation. He is also an active member of the Bronwood Road Church of Christ in Dawson. In his spare time, Milton enjoys traveling and riding motorcycles. He is the founder and president of the Street Phantoms MC. The aim of the Street
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Phantoms is to support the Terrell County community by sponsoring students in need, organizing charity rides, participating in local civic activities, hosting school supply drives, and volunteering whenever possible Milton is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education at Walden University. He is employed at Albany Technical College in Albany, GA, where he serves as chair of the Early Childhood Care and Learning Department. He previously served as is a fifth grade teacher at Carver, where he was named Teacher of the Year in 2012-2013. —
Name: Travis M. Rush Age: Hometown: Americus, GA Profession: Entrepreneur/Ministry Travis is the son of Miller and Emma Rush. He graduated from Americus High School in the class 2000, where he received many honors and awards for academics and athletics sports. Upon completing high school, he entered into a professional contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Organization, where he tenured for 4 years within professional baseball. During his professional career, he attended Keiser College where he completed his undergraduate degree in Computer Science and later attended Ashworth College to complete a second degree in Business Management in 2005. Travis has made an impact on many lives in his community and throughout the United States
through his non-profit organization Progressive Vision Inc., founded in 2005. Progressive Vision Inc. is a faith based nonprofit charity that empowers youth, adults, and seniors through leadership training, economic development, work ready training, and health awareness to become productive, self-sustaining citizens throughout Georgia. Mr. Rush and Progressive Vision Inc. stand behind its motto “Where a Vision without Progress is Just a Dream”. In May 2009, Travis M. Rush accepted the call and entered the ministry. His religious matriculation includes a degree in Biblical Studies from Andersonville Theological Seminary in Thomasville, Georgia. Travis M. Rush serve as Pastor of Spring Creek Baptist Church in Americus Georgia and Visionary Leader of Gateway To Christ International Ministries in Camilla Georgia. In July 2014, Travis M. Rush started a for profit business R&R All-Star Printing, LLC located in Americus, Georgia. Since opening, Travis has been blessed to service clients all over the Southeastern Region of the United States creating numerous jobs.—
Name: Turkeisa Lynn Vaughn-Rushin Age: 39 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Profession: Ministry Turkeisa Rushin is the pastor and Founder of Empowerment Temple, Inc., which is located in Cuthbert, GA. She is the wife of Delton Rushin to which
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they share 5 children, Tyreak Johnson, Kwandarius Rushin, Keychard Hill, Keshaun Hill, Khalar Rushin. Turkeisa is a nurse by profession, minister by the call of God, and an entrepreneur. She currently resides in Albany GA along with her husband and children. In her spare time she loves to read and write. Turkeisa is also one of the collaborative authors in a project book titled Get in the Flow, The Flow, Destiny is Calling and is currently writing her own solo piece. Turkeisa has a heart for people and provokes greatness in and through those she comes across. Her motto is no soul left behind and she ministers to motivate, stimulate, empower, and improve the mental, physical, and psychological well-being of body of Christ. Turkeisa has been pastoring for 2 years in the Cuthbert area but ministering over 15 years. She is a licensed and ordained minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. She currently travels spreading the gospel and building the kingdom of God throughout the land. She has been a blessing to many anonymously and helps feed the needy, homeless, and elderly during choice times of the year. Turkeisa is a product of the Randolph County educational system class of 1994, a 2001 honors graduate of Andrew College Cum Laude, and completed the LPN program at CVCC in 1996.—
brothers, Brandon (Keiva) Latimore and Bryce (Shantia) Latimore; and one nephew Bryce. What makes Kourtney special is that she loves God, family, and people. Kourtney graduated from South Georgia Technical College in 2001 with a degree in accounting. In 2009, she graduated from Fort Valley State University with a degree in mass communications with a concentration in television and radio broadcasting. During her tenure at FVSU, she was lead singer in the Gospel and Concert Choir; she also participated in the Eastern Seaboard Tour. She has been a staff member of AmeriGospel, Incorporated since 1997. AmeriGospel is an organization that provides workshops, concerts, and community activities. The organization sponsors professional clinicians from various parts of Georgia, Florida, and other states to teach participants the most modern techniques of gospel music and interpretative dance. This new knowledge is utilized to strengthen music ministries in the local churches. The aim of AmeriGospel is to enhance the lives of local artists, while giving them a platform to enhance their skills. For more information, visit AmeriGospel.org. Kourtney loves to use her God-given talent to sing and to help others a much as possible. She sang for Continued on page 41
Name: Kourtney Latimore Shelley Age: 35 Hometown: Americus, Georgia Profession: Business/Communications/Singer Kourtney with a “K” is the daughter of Mr. Frank and Dr. Robbie Latimore of Americus. She has two
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Leadership in Life - Not Just a Game! By Dwight Gelowitz
No matter how big or small an organization is they are always on the look out for good leaders. The leader that they are looking for can not just be anyone. They have to be an effective leader. Only a precious few so called leaders out there show effective leadership. You need to be effective in your Internet Business. Internet marketing and Leadership go hand in hand. There is a huge difference between a leader and an effective leader. A leader is someone who is looked upon for direction. An effective leader is someone who has direction and can clearly articulate it for the good of all involved. The organization no matter what it is, needs effective leadership in order to survive. Most leaders step out from the crowd or are chosen by the crowd to lead. In times of crisis a leader is one who takes on the challenge and motivates and creates the space for others to follow. The crowd follows because of their combined faith in the direction the leader has taken. Daegan Smith has been one of those leaders. I've seen him step out of the crowd and say "Whose with me"! A leader is not one who does things on his own. He is not expected to do everything in fact a leader may not do anything but lead. Philospher Confucius says "a leader is the ones whose followers are com-
pelled to follow because of what he is". You see the leader challenges the followers to be more than they think they are and do more than they think they can. He is able to influence the best out of people and stir their inner drive to be better. Organizations and groups of all kinds have different goals and objectives. It is the leader who directs the group in a particular direction to ensure the accomplishment of those goals. He is also the one who helps to articulate what those goals are and how the accomplishment of those goals help the individuals in the organization accomplish theirs. The most powerful leaders i have been exposed to have been able to find a way to have people believe that the accomplishment of their individual goals will help to accomplish the goals of the group. They find a way to show people that to be a part of the group is to be bigger than they could on their own. There are many types of leadership from Autocratic to Democratic and a few types in between. The Autocratic Leader is one who makes all the decisions without consultation and is the one who sets policies and demands they be followed out by the group or organization that they head. They are typically followed by people who can't handle decisions on their own and look to a strong leader to tell them what to do. Continued on page 48
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Shelley, Cont'd from page 39 former President Jimmy Carter, and annually sings with Early Clover of the Legendary group “The Coasters.” She also auditioned for season one of Black Entertainment Television’s (BET) Sunday Best in Atlanta. Kourtney was so good that she made the final round with celebrity judges. She ranked among the top 35 out 1500. Kourtney enjoys employing her gift to draw others to Christ. She is currently, the worship leader at her home place of worship, Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church in Americus. She is also a youth worship leader, youth choir director, and AWANA (Approved Workman Are Not Ashamed) Teacher. In 2014, Kourtney became of the founder and chief executive officer MuttLife.org. MUTT is a reverse evangelism acronym that means “Made Uniquely Through Trials.” Muttlife.org is a ministry designed to reach people with the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a practical and relatable way. Kourtney is also pursuing her music. In the spring 2015, she debut her album entitled, Discover Jesus.” She is also currently pursuing a master’s degree in Christian Ministry with a focus in Worship from Liberty University. In the future, she aspires to continue the Good News of Jesus Christ throughout the nation and abroad. She also desires to create programs that will engage young people and to build programs to provide temporary housing for the homeless, assist in training programs, and job placement assistance through workshops. Kourtney currently resides in Warner Robins, Georgia with her husband Antonio and son Franklin—.
Congratulations 2015 Rural Leader Forty under 40 Honorees from
Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy Publisher and Editor
What you do matters.
Name: Edmund Tramaine Solomon Age: 34 Hometown: Lineville, Alabama Profession: Ministry/Political Activist Edmund Tramaine Solomon is the son of Edmund and Gwendolyn Johnson Solomon, and he is making a positive impact in and around the rural communities of East Alabama. Edmund is a dynamic minister and preacher who serves as Senior Pastor of the Springhill Baptist Church in Lineville, AL. Many credit Edmund for leading and fostering an environment within the church as a Place of Hope in the community. Service is a way of life for Edmund, for he enjoys serving others and traveling extensively to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ. He is very hands on and believes in collaboration. Edmund partners with the Empower Alabama initiate voter registration drives to educate the community on political affairs, to building the community through youth summer enrichment programs, and to serve as a voice for the least, the lost, and the left out. Edmund truly has a heart for helping people regardless of race, or age. He is the Founder and President of Clay County Faith in Action (CCFA). CCFA is a group of faith and civic leaders who inform and educate the community on local issues. The group also organizes political forums, and voter registrations drives. Edmund was recognized by the Clay County Alabama Democratic Conference Chapter for his work with the Living the Dream Award in 2013. Edmund is also the Founder of the Annual Clay County Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration that is also sponsored by the Clay County Faith in Action.
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Above and Beyond He also serves as a Spiritual Advisor to many government officials in the East Alabama area. He is also the Vice Moderator of the Friendship Western Union District Baptist Association. Edmund holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree both from Theology Andersonville Theological Seminary School. He is currently pursuing a Master’s of Divinity from Luther Rice University and Seminary. —
State University, Santreasa volunteered with various programs such as America Read, Relay for Life, Fall Festivals, and Criterion-Referenced Competency Test (CRCT) workshops at Valdosta City Schools. She also received several academic nods while at VSU; she was nominated for A Greek Honor Society, 2010 Dean’s List for Fall Semester GPA 3.7, 2011 Dean’s List for Spring Semester GPA 3.7, and Hope Scholarship Recipient from 2011-2013. She has contributed much to her community by volunteering and demonstrating exemplary leadership ability. Santreasa is a lead mentor and tutor for a nonprofit organization called PLUTO, which stands for Peer Leaders Undermining Today’s Obstacle. In this capacity, she serves as a positive and caring role model in addition to creating the lesson plans for PLUTO’s Summer Session Success Program. She also aid’s the organization at various community outreach events such as the Back to School Supply Drive and Christmas Toy Drive. In the past, she organized the monthly CRCT boot camps and the annual March Madness programs. She also volunteers with Camp Georgia, a summer camp based in Cuthbert that was created in memory Name: Santreasa Chanel Starling of former educator the late Mrs. Georgia Clark to Age: 24 empower and to educate the youth. During the sumHometown: Cuthbert, GA mer of 2014, Santreasa taught math for three weeks Profession: Educator for several hours each day. Santreasa is currently a 4th grade teacher at Ran Santreasa is the daughter of Reverend Henry and Mrs. Sharla Hogan III and the late Dexter Moore. She dolph County Elementary School. She teaches reading, science, social studies, language arts, and math was a 2009 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School. intervention. In addition, she is also presently pursIn high school, she was crowned Miss Randolph ing a master’s degree in early childhood education Clay for the academic school year of 2008-2009. She from Albany State University. — maintained good grades and represented RCHS at various program. She graduated in 2009 with honors and received several scholarships for college. Santreasa received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Valdosta State University in 2014. At a young age, Santreasa was very giving and wanted to make a difference, from helping at local churches and volunteering for different organizations in the community. She values education and loves to empower youth. While in college at Valdosta 42 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
Name: Jameeca Tarrant Age: 33 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Profession: Healthcare/Registered Nurse Jameeca is a 2000 graduate from Randolph Clay High School. After high school, she continued her education at Tuskegee University and received a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Nursing in 2004. Her life call is to serve others and nursing helps her to do so in a number of ways. Throughout her career, Jameeca worked as a Registered Nurse in Open Heart Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Open Heart Stepdown, and travel nursing assignments in Los Angeles, CA in the Heart and Lung Transplant ICU. Jameeca is also involved in her community. She is a faithful member of Bethel Baptist Church in Pratt City, AL, where she serves as vice president of the usher board. She also works with numerous nonprofit organizations that aim to keep youth off the streets by providing safe and structured activities. Jameeca is also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. The Order of the Eastern Star is a Freemasonic appendant body open to both men and women. It was established in 1850 by lawyer and educator Rob Morris, a noted Freemason. The order is based on teachings from the Bible, but is open to people of all religious beliefs. Jameeca is currently a charge nurse and new hire preceptor at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham where she resides with her husband, James Tarrent III.—
Name: Sommier Betina Thomas Age: 35 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Profession: Educator Sommier is a 1998 graduate of Randolph Clay High School. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science (2002) with a concentration in pre-law from Spellman College in Atlanta. She also as a Master of Science degree in Applied American Politics and Policy (2006) and a Gifted Endorsement from Columbus State University in 2012. Throughout her higher education career, Sommier made the Honor roll and Dean’s List for several semesters; she also made the Dean’s List for five semesters in graduate school. While at Spelman College she was a member of the National Honor Society of Political Science (Pi Sigma Alpha) and a Governor’s Scholar. She is very involved in her school and community. She served as a Literacy Design Collaborative (LDC) Liaison who helped new teachers develop units and modules to teach for the academic year. Sommier is also a member of the Leadership Team for Randolph Clay Middle/High School; she is also 6th grade secretary and Social studies department chair. She was named Teacher of the Year 2013-2014 for Randolph Clay Middle School because of her hard work and dedication. Sommier is also a proud member of the Theta Sigma Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., where she served as Grammateus (secretary) from 2008-2010. She is a member of the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE).
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In her spare time, Sommier enjoys bowling. Her current league bowler average is 178. In March 2015, she placed 4th in the Single’s division at the Georgia State Women’s Bowling Tournament. Sommier is currently a sixth grade teacher at Randolph Clay Middle/High School.—
Name: Laurice Walker Age: 37 Hometown: Dawson, GA Profession: Educator/Entrepreneur Laurice was born in Hartford, Connecticut to Clement Allen and Dorothy Allen-Redhead and lived there for the first twelve years of her life. She has two sisters, Kimberly and Alexia. In 1990, she moved to her family’s hometown of Dawson, Georgia. She is a 1996 honor graduate of Terrell High School. Laurice holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education Bachelor’s degree from Georgia Southwestern University (2002) in Americus, Georgia. She also holds a master’s degree in management and administration of education programs (2004) and an education specialist degree in Curriculum/Instruction Management and Assessment (2005) both at Nova Southeastern University. She has received an English Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement (ESOL) from Northwest Georgia RESA in (2008). Laurice also attended Albany State University where she earned a certification in Educational Leadership in (2009). Laurice has worked in education for the last thirteen years. She began her teaching career at Randolph County Elementary School in Cuthbert, GA and taught for one year (2002-2003). She returned
to Terrell County to give back to the children of her community in 2003 and accepted a position at Lillie Cooper Primary School. Laurice currently works as a second grade teacher in Terrell County at Cooper Carver Elementary School. She has chaired and cochaired various committees at her school, been a part of the school’s leadership team, and school improvement team. She has taught and worked in the After School Tutorial Program and the Summer School Enrichment Program. Laurice was selected as Teacher of the Year 20152016 at Cooper Elementary School. She has worked with the Georgia Department of Human Services as an Education Support Specialist where she tutored numerous students in grades kindergarten through fifth grade (2010-2013). She has also worked with Advantage Counseling Services which was a Family Outreach Program that served local families of Terrell County (2010-2012). Laurice is very dedicated to her profession because she loves working with children in hopes of planting the seeds of learning, nurturing those young minds for the future. Her ultimate goal is to instill in her students the importance of receiving an education and to become lifelong learners. In November 2014, Laurice and her husband Johnny decided to venture out and become business owners. They are now the proud owners and managers of Walker Trucking Company, LLC. A small logistics business that moves freight throughout the South East region of the United States. Outside of the workplace, Laurice has many interests- she has served as a volunteer, mentor, and a Girl Scout Leader. Laurice is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated; she is a member of the Albany (GA) Alumnae Chapter. She is also a member of The Professional Association for Georgia Educators and The National Educators Association. Although, she finds much joy in her career, her greatest and most satisfying moments are times spent with her husband, Johnny Bernard Walker, Jr. and their two-year old daughter, Lauryn Alyssa Walker. Laurice currently resides in Dawson, GA.—
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Name: Tamika Washington Age: 38 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Profession: Registered Nurse Tamika is 1995 graduate of Randolph Clay High School. She obtained certification as a nursing associate and began work at Crown Healthcare in 1998 as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CAN). Her worked at Crowne Healthcare helped her to realize the joy of working with people, especially the elderly. With the desire to further her career in healthcare, Tamika enrolled in Wallace Community College. In 2000, she graduated from the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program. In 2008, she went back to school at Wallace Community College to pursue an Associate degree in nursing while working full-time and raising a five children. She graduated in August 2011 with an associate degree in nursing. Tamika successful passed the nursing licensure exam October 7th of the same year. In her spare time, Tamika enjoys giving back to community and spending time with her children. In 2011, she was honored with the Mother of Year Award by the J. B. Smith Youth Group. The J. B. Smith Youth Group was founded by James E. Mock, Sr. and named after a prominent educator, James B. Smith with an aim to mentor youth ages 3-19 with positive and safe activities. —
Name: Shannon Wiggins Age: 24 Hometown: Atlanta, GA Profession: Multimedia Journalist Shannon is daughter of Keith Wiggins and Patricia Wiggins; she has one brother, Kendal. She lived in Lithonia, Georgia for 7 years before her family moved to Conyers, Georgia. While in Conyers, she was very involved in extracurricular activities throughout her elementary, middle, and high school career, such as dance, gymnastics, music, track, acting, reporting, and video production. Her involvement in school news reporting while at Salem High influenced her decision to attend the University of Georgia at Athens to purse a degree in the news industry. She graduated in May 2013 magna cum laude with a double major in Digital Broadcast Journalism and Political Science. Shannon’s areas of interest include listening to music, public speaking, working with young people, shopping, watching professional football, spending time with her friends, and getting involved in community service initiatives. She currently is a Multimedia Journalist, Night Reporter, and Beat Reporter for WALB Channel 10 – the NBC affiliate based in both Thomasville and Albany. —
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Name: Dayna Wilburn Age: 35 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Profession: Counselor/Public Administration Dayna is a 1998 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology (2005) and a master’s degree in public administration (2009) both from Albany State University. Dayna is the essence of service-above self. She is also humble, trustworthy, determined, and dependable. Coupled with her strong faith in God, Dayna employs these remarkable attributes to serve and to encourage others to live their best life. Dayna is a member of the distinguished Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The one hundred and three year old organization focus aims include sisterhood, scholarship, and service. She continually serves others as the in her career field. Dayna is currently a Behavior Health and Developmental Disabilities Social Services Case Manager with Aspire and Department of Family an dChildren Services Liason with the Millennium Center, where she was instrumental in developing the first Aftercare union, both in Cuthbert. She is the proud mother of one son, Dayln, 8, and they both also currently reside in Cuthbert. —
Name: Janet G. Williams Age: 36 Hometown: Cuthbert, GA Profession: Business Administration Janet is the daughter of William and Mary Gilbert and is a 1996 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School. She graduated from South Georgia Technical College with a business diploma. She is a member of Mount Cilla Non Denomination Church, where Rev. Dr. Prophetess Christine Kennedy is pastor. Janet is an active member who has served as Sunday School secretary, and assistant choir director. She is currently employed with the Cuthbert Division of Child Support and Social Services in the Pataula Judicial Circuit. Her role involves enhances the well-being of children by locating noncustodial parents, establishing paternity, enforcing support orders, modifying orders when appropriate, collecting and distributing child support payments, and referring parents to other social service programs. The program aims are to promote parent accountability, self-sufficiency and to reduce the public’s responsibility for providing financial and medical support to children. In the future, Janet plans to pursue additional education in the field of health and nutrition.—
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Name: Natalie Williams Age: 35 Hometown: Fort Gaines, Georgia Profession: Family Nurse Practitioner/ Entrepreneur Natalie has been a registered nurse for ten years, and a Family Nurse Practitioner for eight. She has been a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for fifteen years. She is a faithful member of Bethesda Baptist Church in Americus. She is a member of American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2004) and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (2004) both from Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus. She holds a Master’s of Science degree in Nursing with a focus in Family Nurse Practitioner (2007) from Troy University. She is currently pursing a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and Post Master’s Certificate to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Brandman University. She is currently employed at St. Francis Hospital at the Bradley Center Depression. Natalie is also employed with United Healthcare and Care Improvement Plus as Family Nurse Practicioner. She is also employed with Macon State Prison as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Natalie is also a prolific entrepreneur. She is the CEO of three business ventures: N.A.T.S. Nursing Adult TotalCare Services, LLC, N.A.T.S. Nutrition And TotalBody Solutions, LLC, and N.A.T.S. Noble And Trustworthy eStates, LLC. Natalie currently resides in Americus with her son Nicholas.—
Name: Christopher Wright Age: 25 Hometown: Dawson, Georgia Profession: Local Government Christopher is the son of Sean Wright and Tonya Wright. He is also the father of one daughter, Erin T. Wright, and uncle to Christian Johnson. He is a 2008 graduate of Terrell County High School; he also graduated in 2012 from Albany Technical College with a diploma in Business Administrative Technology. While at ATC, Christopher served two consecutive terms as chapter president of Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda (FBLA-PBL). He was placed first in a state Public Speaking Competition and placed second in the National Public Speaking completion in San Antonio, TX. Christopher is the also first ATC student to place in the top five in a national competition. He was also one of the 2012 nominees for the Georgia State Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) Award. Christopher is also very involved in politics. He is the former chairman of the Terrell County Democratic Party and the current chairman of the 4th Quadrant of the Georgia Democratic Party of 2nd Congressional District Georgia, and the Mayor of Dawson. He is also the office manager and apprentice Funeral Director at Johnson & Son Funeral Service in Dawson, GA. He is also the co-founder of The Christian Brothers Acapella Quarter Gospel Singing Group and a member of the local chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Continued on page 56
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Leadership in Life, cont'd from page 40 The Democratic leader is one that promotes participation by the group in developing direction and policy for the group. This type of leader typically has more independant followers and people who will feel more confident of their ideas.The great democratic leader is one who leads and the followers believe not that they are following but that they are leading. In my humble opinion i believe that the best leader is not the one who has the most followers but the best leader is the one who develops the most leaders. The leader who doesn't say follow me but steps up and says I'll go first! You see leadership is not just making decisions and telling people what to do. Leadership is an all encompasing philosophy of life where one decides who they are and says "I'll do that" or "I'll be that" or "I'm going this way - who is
with me!". Where in your life have you shown leadership? Where in your life do you want to develop leadership? You see people will follow if you choose to lead. Where will you go? From My Treasure Chest to Yours!— About The Author Dwight is an internet entrepreneur who makes his way in the world helping others find what works for them. NetPowerProspecting.com - NETPower Prospecting is their current project to bring the art of Internet Marketing to those who need it!
Congratulations 2015 Rural Leader Forty under 40 Honorees
Shellman Drug Company "Family owned and operated retail pharmacy and gift shop"
75 West Railroad Street Shellman, Georgia 39886 229-679-5070
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4 Top Technology Degrees for Today’s Career Seekers The career outlook for technology professionals remains highly promising. With so many emerging employment opportunities, The White House announced the TechHire initiative in March to encourage American cities to offer training to prepare the workforce for careers in growing tech fields. The United States has about five million open jobs today, which is more than at any point since 2001. Over half a million of those job openings are in information technology fields like software development, network administration and cybersecurity, many of which did not exist just a decade ago. As an added incentive for Americans to pursue tech careers, the average salary in a job that requires information technology (IT) skills - whether in manufac-
turing, advertising, retail or banking - is 50 percent higher than the average private-sector American job. “Our information technology students today are enthusiastic about the future job,” says Dr. Rajin Koonjbearry, professor and cyber security expert at DeVry University. “Not only are traditional IT careers standing out, but increasing private information online calls for cyber security experts to help companies protect against threats.” Here are some of the most valuable tech specializations and degree programs available to career seekers today: 1. Cyber Security Cyber security has been listed by The World Economic Forum as one of the top five global risks in
terms of likelihood, and has been ranked as a top concern in federal chief information officer surveys. The White House even released an executive order aimed at improving critical infrastructure cybersecurity. Demand for cyber security professionals continues to rise, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 37 percent increase in information security analyst jobs through 2022. To meet this demand, colleges and universities are starting to offer degrees in cyber security. In May, DeVry University unveiled a new Cyber Security Programming specialization within its Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems program, available on campus or online in select states.
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The program includes Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) preparation and exam facilitation, a key credential employers may require in hiring cyber security professionals that has been accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). 2. Health Information Systems Another fast-growing tech specialization is in health information systems. The North American healthcare technology market is predicted to grow significantly to more than $31 billion by 2017, up from approximately $22 billion in 2012, according to Research and Markets’ North American Healthcare IT Market Report. Demand for health informatics specialists is partly driven by the growing complexity of healthcare operations, government initiatives to promote IT in hospitals and the shift toward paperless billing and payment environments. Students who earn a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems can pursue professional certification as a Certified Associate in Healthcare Information and Management (CAHIMS) to show employers their knowledge and skills. 3. Systems Analysis and Integration Computer systems analysts play a vital role in researching, planning and recommending software and systems that best meet an organization’s business requirements. These analysts combine their knowledge of information technology and business to manage the organization’s overall computer system - from
designing and developing new systems to helping networks run more efficiently and effectively. According to a new market report, the global market for system integration is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of nearly 11 percent from 2014 to 2020. Following graduation, students who want to stand out from the competition can pursue a post-baccalaureate certificate in Information Systems and Management. 4. Web Development and Administration The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 20 percent employment growth for Web developers by 2022. During that period, about 28,500 new jobs will need to be filled in an industry that already has roughly 141,400 positions. The expansion of e-commerce is expected to fuel this high job growth in the coming decade. Companies need web developers who can design webpage layout and solve code problems, help expand their online retail presence and safeguard the site and end users’ privacy. Given the high job growth rates expected in these four areas, bachelor’s degree candidates are increasingly looking for programs that meet their future career aspirations. A specialized degree, especially when paired with a professional certification valued by employers, can open doors to a rewarding career.—BPT
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Create your own Personal Pension? It’s possible For example, let’s say you purchased a DIA with a Retirement planning has certainly changed a lot $50,000 lump sum. That money will then be held over the years, hasn’t it? First came pensions, or by your financial institution for a defined period, defined benefit plans, with their guaranteed income for life. After that it was 401(k)s. These plans focused according to the contract, where it will grow with on growing wealth from the stock and bond markets. interest. After a specified amount of time has passed, you can start receiving payments. This guaranteed Your pension and 401(k) were meant to work tostream of income can then be used to supplement gether but now pensions are disappearing and many additional retirement savings and help you fill a void people are left with just their 401(k) plan. in your retirement portfolio. Your 401(k) is an important piece of your retire A DIA is one example of the many options that are ment savings but it was never intended to be your available when it comes to retirement strategies and sole retirement solution. Instead, your 401(k) was that’s good news for any investor seeking retirement meant to provide additional retirement savings that worked with your pension, savings and other income income. With traditional pensions disappearing from the landscape, there are still plenty of options that let sources to paint a full retirement picture. But now you design personal solutions for your own retirefor many people the pensions are gone and while you have other savings avenues - what can you do to ment. The key is knowing your options and working with a financial professional who can help guide you replace this lost retirement income? toward a stable retirement, that way you’ll be ready One option could be a deferred income annuity (DIA). A DIA allows you to set up a guaranteed for any changes that happen in your retirement planning until it’s finally time for you to enjoy the fruits income stream beginning later in your life. With a DIA it’s important to remember that the guaranteed of all that hard work and smart saving. About Thrivent Financial income is based on the strength and claims paying Thrivent Financial is a financial services orgaability of your financial institution so it’s important nization that helps Christians be wise with money to choose the right partner. DIA’s are traditionaland live generously. As a membership organization, ly funded with a lump sum payment up front and the contract promises to pay you a lifetime income it offers its nearly 2.4 million member-owners a broad range of products, services and guidance from stream starting with a date of your choice. RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 51
financial representatives nationwide. For more than a century it has helped members make wise money choices that reflect their values while providing them opportunities to demonstrate their generosity where they live, work and worship. For more information, visit Thrivent.com/why. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter. Insurance products issued or offered by Thrivent Financial, the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Appleton, WI. Not all products are available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services are offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., 625 Fourth Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415, a FIN-
RA and SIPC member and a wholly owned subsidiary of Thrivent. Thrivent Financial representatives are registered representatives of Thrivent Investment Management Inc. They are also licensed insurance agents/producers of Thrivent. For additional important information, visit Thrivent.com/disclosures. If requested, a Thrivent Financial representative may contact you and financial solutions, including insurance, may be solicited. Guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying ability of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.—
Congratulations 2015 Rural Leader 40 under 40 Honorees
The DAWG HOUSE Hotdogs-Hamburgers and More On The Square Cuthbert, Georgia
229-732-5688
Leadership in Life, cont'd from page 30 mind to all of the factors involved, some of which I initially might not be aware of. By keeping an open mind, I was also able to be effective in another key leadership role – staying ahead of other potential problems. By looking at the options, I could see which might cause other issues down the road. This at least gave me a chance to develop a plan to deal with these if I took that particular path. • Challenge the team – my very first business mentor had the unique ability through eflective questions, to challenge me to find the answers on my own. When I was stumped, he challenged me to identify the resources that would help me keep moving forward. To this day, I believe that his leadership approach to me – to challenge me to be better – laid the foundation for many of the successes I experienced in my career. He wasalways
there to help me or guide me but, most importantly, he helped me learn the real measure of my full capabilities. A quote that I recently came across says it best “Leadership involves inspiring others to be greater than they believe they can be; to help them see how they can exceed their own self-expectations”. So, what should you do now? Simple…conduct your own self examination to evaluate how well you are leading your team. Ask yourself how well you stack up against these 5 points. Need help, just call or e-mail me. About The Author Chris Ruisi is an experienced executive/business coach as well as accomplished leadership/business motivational speaker. To learn more about Chris visit TheCoachszone.com or email Chris at Chris@TheCoachsZone.com.—
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Tips to Turn Kids into Money Masters at Any Age Most kids start learning about money earlier than a lot of people think-and it’s usually from watching their parents. Three out of five young adults say their parents’ advice or example had the greatest influence over how they handle their finances today, according to findings from a Bank of America/USA TODAY survey. That parental involvement had a big effect on the practice of good financial habits. Of those who say their parents did an “excellent” or “good” job teaching them about money, 74 percent have savings and nearly half make a regular budget. “Talking to your kids about money and using everyday moments to teach practical lessons is not only important, it works,” says Andrew Plepler, global corporate social responsibility executive at Bank of America. “It’s OK to be repetitive - kids may not always remember everything we say - but this survey shows that they do lis-
ten and learn from our example.” Parents who would like guidance on how to teach kids valuable financial lessons can find help online. The website BetterMoneyHabits.com - a financial education resource by Bank of America and education innovator Khan Academy - offers easy-to-follow videos and tips to help parents teach important financial lessons to children of various stages and ages. Elementary lessons A child in elementary school is just learning how money works, so simple lessons are best. For example, a trip to the store for back-to-school shopping can be an opportunity to learn about how to comparison shop and save money. Ask your child to examine the prices of different folder and notebook styles and find the lowest priced items. An allowance is another tool for teaching the building blocks of money management. Experts typically recommend parents
who follow this approach to give young children 50 cents to $1 per week for every year of their age. Some parents start with a smaller amount and only raise it once they feel their child can handle the responsibility. Moving up to middle school At this age your child may be ready for more complex money-management skills, including saving for larger, medium-term goals such as coveted clothing or electronics. Work with them to build a savings plan around a goal and track progress. For bigger-ticket items, consider matching contributions to reward your child’s savings efforts. If she wants a new phone that costs $200, for example, you could ask her to save for half, and agree to cover the remaining $100. This age is also a good time to talk about digital spending. All those in-app purchases, music and game downloads can add up. Instead of allowing your child to
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download at will, consider setting up online accounts to require a password for purchases and set a monthly spending limit. When he asks you to make a digital purchase, discuss the cost and how what he’s asking for will fit into the budget. High school lessons By high school, your teenager will be much more independent and will have had a lot more experience with money. If he is managing a larger allowance or even an income from a part-time job, it may be time to open a checking account. Checking accounts come with a lot of responsibility, but walking him through the process of setting one up and establishing best practices for banking and managing money responsibly will set the foundation for sound money habits far into the future. As your teen gets older, she may start to have bigger ideas about things she wants to do or purchase - such as planning a spring break trip or graduation party or buying a car. Take the opportunity to talk about how much it could cost, work with her to map out a budget for all related expenses, and identify ways for her to help contribute, say for a plane ticket
Congratulations 2015 Rural Leader 40 under 40 Honorees
or the party invitations. At some point, most teens are offered opportunities to take on debt, perhaps through loans or credit cards. You can help prevent impulsive decisions (and costly outcomes), by teaching teens some key guidelines about borrowing money. For example, most teens might not understand that there is a cost to taking out a loan or charging purchases to a credit card if you stretch the payments out over a long time. There is of course a benefit to borrowing money responsibly as a way to build credit so show your teen your credit report and discuss your own experiences to show how good and bad decisions affect credit and purchasing power. Whether your child is just starting to learn the value of money or is old enough to have a bank account, the money skills you set while they are young could help them develop financial skills for a lifetime. For more ideas on teaching kids about money - as well as resources on everyday money matters for adults visit www.bettermoneyhabits.com.—BPT
Congratulations 2015 Rural Leader Forty under Forty Honorees
Silver's Lounge Corner of 4th and Andrew Street Cuthbert, Georgia
Open Monday-Saturday 6PM-2PM
Bingo every Wednesday
Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church 184 Piney Grove Church Road Cuthbert, Georgia 229-732-6006
7PM-8:30PM
Happy Hour each Saturday 7PM-10PM
Rev. David Hamm, Jr., Pastor Deacon Wilburn Shingles, Chairman Deacon Michael Starling, Treasuer Services each 3rd Sunday at 11:30 AM Sunday School at 10:30 AM
Labor Day BBQ
September 7th at 2 PM
For more INFO, call 229-310-7174
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What’s the Makers Movement about? Reinventing the world one child at a time
Can kids playing with Legos make the world a better place? Will children who build their own rocket ships or dollhouses go on to be the adult innovators of tomorrow, who take on the world’s challenges with technology and creativity? If 13-year-old Shubham Banerjee is an example of young makers, the answer to those questions may be a resounding “Yes!” After reading that most Braille printers cost more than $2,000, Shubham decided this price was “crazy” and set out to create a cheaper alternative. Using a Lego kit and parts from a local hardware store, he built a prototype Braille printer of his own. The price? About $350. With financial and technology backing from Intel, Shubham founded his own company and is now working on a more advanced, low-cost Braille printer based on the postage-stamp size Intel Edison computing platform. Shubham’s story is amazing and
inspiring - and less of an exception or a messy science experiment. than you might think. His story is This shift to making represents the one of the many successes emerg- perfect storm of new technological materials, expanded opportuniing from the Maker Movement. ties, learning through hands-on Makers come from all socio-ecoexperience and the basic human nomic backgrounds and are all impulse to create.” ages. They use technology and Affordable technology and the creativity to reinvent the world ability to share online has fuaround them, whether it’s adding eled the Maker Movement. New motion-sensitive LED lights to Barbie’s outfit, creating a tweetable tools like 3D printers, robotics, coffee pot or using sensors to cre- affordable microprocessors like ate an app-enabled watering systhe Intel Galileo or Intel Edison development boards and new tem for their houseplants. Many, like Shubham, are employing their programming languages are skills as makers to create their own enabling hands-on learning and encouraging children of all ages career opportunities. “The lesson for all of us is that to use these tools to move from passive receivers of knowledge to making and exploring through play is not just about celebrating real-world makers. For the first time, students can take their powthe gifted but about triggering and encouraging the talent living erful ideas to create real things, not just make-believe models. inside every child,” says Jay MelKids can solve real problems with ican, Intel’s maker czar. “Study their own inventions and easily after study supports that the best explore science, technology, engiway to activate a curious mind is to make something. That might be neering and math (STEM) career opportunities. an amazing high-tech invention RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 55
The Maker Movement holds the promise to specifically inspire girls to pursue STEM studies and even careers. An Intel study, called MakeHers, found that the social-service aspects motivate female makers and that girl makers develop more interest and skills in computer science and engineering. Parents and teachers of school-age children may already unwittingly participate in the Maker Movement when children use tablets in the classroom, play coding games or build a soapbox car at home. Attending a Maker Faire is a great way to learn more about the world of Making and inspire kids of all ages. Heralded as the “greatest show-and-tells on earth,” Forty under 40, Wright con'td from page 47 Christopher is also a member, steward, and minister-in-training at the Bronwood Road Church of Christ in Dawson, GA. and a member of the local Chapter of the NAACP. Last but not least, Christopher is the Honorable Mayor of the City of Dawson serving his second term. Mayor Wright is a community organizer, philanthropist, and humanitarian. He spends making a difference by working with non-profit organizations to improve the community.—
the Maker Faire in San Mateo, California annually attracts more than 145,000 children and adults over just one weekend. Hundreds of Maker Faires are held around the world throughout the year. They gather to make things, show off, challenge one another, laugh, play, invent, tinker, solve problems and inspire. Excitement, rather than expertise, is the coin of the realm in this magical environment full of fire-breathing sculptures, cupcake cars, bicycle-powered rock bands, soda and Mentos-propelled fountains and workshops in programming, soldering, welding, lock-picking, knitting, crocheting and robot making. To learn more and to find a Maker Faire near you, visit makerfaire.com.—BPT Art with a PurposePreserving African American History through Art
KuanitaMurphy.com
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Congratulations 2015 Forty under 40 Honorees Sheriff Eddie Fairbank & Randolph County Sheriff 's Department 216 Recreation Camp Rd. Cuthbert, Ga. 39840 229.732.2525 www.randolphgasheriff.org
Wayne's Restaurant and Grill Buffet Lunch-BBQ-Burgers-SandwichesSteaks-Seafood
What you do matters.
We do Catering
Wayne Etheridge Owner
229-881-0850 735 Forrester Drive Dawson, GA 39842 229-695-9513
52 East Dawson Street Cuthbert, GA 39840 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 57
"As a lover of history, I find myself getting caught up with the exploits and courage of those who came before me. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcom, and Frederick Douglas all earned their places in history. But recently, I have realized that I can do more than read about history. I can be a part of it. I can write it and even play the trailblazer, if I wanted. I came to this thought as I worked with my friend and collegue, Dr. Kuanita Murphy. I realized that I was a witness to history as she took the first bold steps to create her own magazine and make it a success despite the challenges placed in her way. Rural Leader Magazine seeks to shine a spotlight on those who are working in front and behind the scenes of rural communities to create economic stability, self-sufficient families, and more. This powerful work is the glue that holds many of our small towns and communities together in times of economic stress and uncertainity. It is the efforts of those of us in this room and beyond that makes us a success in every way while making sure that our future is secure and the legacy we leave behind is never taken for granted. I am conscious of the fact that history is not just a story of past events, but a living, breathing "moment of now" that will someday be appreciated by those who walk through the doors we opened. The fact that we stand here today celebrating not only her achievement, but those of our award winners and their families, is a testament to what a focused minded can accomplish..."— Sara Lee Crumbs, Contributing Writier, September 4, 2015, Forty under 40 Luncheon Honors, Americus, GA
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