Youth Leadership Cherokee

04/23/2026

Today marked the final day and graduation of our Youth Leadership Cherokee Class! 🎓

We are proud to celebrate 24 outstanding high school juniors representing all five schools in Cherokee County who successfully completed this year’s program. Throughout the year, these students gained valuable insight into many aspects of our community including agriculture, tourism, community service, economic development, government, healthcare, and so much more.

To wrap up the year, students had the opportunity to visit a few of our sponsors they hadn’t seen during the program to personally say “thank you” for their support. The day ended with some well-earned fun—bowling and pizza—before each student received their certificate of completion. They will also be awarded a special cord to wear at their graduation next year.

We wish each of these students the very best as they head into their senior year—you are the future of Cherokee County!

A huge THANK YOU to all of our incredible sponsors who make Youth Leadership Cherokee possible. Your investment in these students is truly making a difference. 💙

03/19/2026

02/24/2026

Youth Leadership Cherokee had an incredible Economic Development Day exploring some of the key assets that help drive growth and opportunity right here in Cherokee County!

Our students started the day at the Centre-Piedmont Cherokee County Regional Airport, where they learned how a local airport supports business recruitment, industry expansion, emergency services, and overall economic development. Aviation plays a much bigger role in rural communities than many people realize, and our students gained valuable insight into how infrastructure fuels progress.

Next, we visited Alabama Power’s Weiss Dam, one of the most important economic and energy-producing assets in our region. Students learned about hydroelectric power generation, water management, recreation, and the lasting impact Weiss Lake has on tourism and local business.

We wrapped up the day with a wonderful lunch overlooking the water at Decks & Docks in Leesburg — a perfect setting to reflect on how natural resources, infrastructure, and local businesses all work together to strengthen Cherokee County’s economy.

A big thank you to all our hosts for investing in the next generation of leaders!

02/18/2026

Don’t miss your chance—apply now for the Alabama ONE Aspire Foundation Scholarship!🎒

The Alabama ONE Aspire Foundation offers several scholarships to help you pursue your education. 🎓💙

Check out the list of Alabama ONE Foundation Scholarships and apply today at https://alabamaonefoundation.org/scholarships/

02/05/2026

‼️ Class of 2026 ‼️
Don’t forget to apply for the First Southern State Young Leader Scholarship! 🎓💵

This scholarship can be put toward any college coursework, including technical programs such as cosmetology and lineman school. Eligibility is limited to students who graduate in 2026 from a high school within Cherokee, DeKalb, Jackson, or Marshall counties in Alabama.

👉 Apply today:
https://www.fssbank.com/accounts/about-us/news/first-southern-young-leader-scholarship

🗓 Deadline: March 27, 2026

Your Community.
Your BANK.
First Southern State Bank

02/05/2026

🩺 Youth Leadership Cherokee | Medical Day 🩺

Our Youth Leadership Cherokee students had an incredible and eye-opening Medical Day exploring the many career opportunities available right here in Cherokee County!

We kicked off the day at Cherokee County Health & Rehabilitation, where Administrator Jennifer Cambron and her amazing staff gave students a tour of their beautiful facility and shared insight into the wide range of services they provide. Students also learned about various career paths, employee benefits, and scholarship opportunities available through employment—valuable information for anyone considering healthcare as a future career.

Next, we visited Atrium Health Floyd Cherokee Medical Center, where students toured the hospital and experienced healthcare in action. They witnessed an ultrasound firsthand, visited Atrium Health Floyd EMS and the emergency room, and gained a behind-the-scenes look at how a hospital operates. The team at Atrium Health Floyd Cherokee even treated our group to lunch in the cafeteria—thank you for the hospitality!

After lunch, we wrapped up the day at Revette Physical Therapy & Sports Performance, where owners Kaitlyn and Blake Revette taught students all about physical therapy and athletic training, offering insight into both the medical and business sides of the profession.

It was an informative and inspiring day that highlighted the many medical career opportunities available in Cherokee County. A huge thank you to all of our hosts for investing in the future of our students! 💙

01/13/2026

Hey 4-H Seniors!!!
4-H Foundation Scholarships are LIVE and there are over 35 awarded across the state! They've gotta go to someone, why not you??

Application Requirements: ​
- Your 4-H Story – “How Alabama 4-H Has Changed My Life” – 500 word limit and double spaced. ​
- Resume – ONE PAGE – Make sure to include 4-H and Other Activities ​
- Letter of Recommendation (Mrs. Beth and Mr. Landon would be elated to recommend you!)
- Photograph – You Are Asked To Upload A Photograph With Your Application – This Is ONLY Used For PR If Your Are Selected ​

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**We Do NOT Ask GPA and Test Scores, This Scholarship Is About 4-H and Your 4-H Experience NOT Just Academics! ​

No weight is given to academic institution or course of study! 4-H values university, community college, trade school, and credentialing programs.

11/19/2025

✨ Youth Leadership Cherokee – Tourism Day! ✨

Yesterday, our Youth Leadership Cherokee class experienced an incredible Tourism Day right here in Cherokee County!

We started at Orbix Hot Glass, where owner and artist Cal Breed wowed the students with a glass-blowing demonstration showcasing his remarkable talent. Each student had the opportunity to blow their very own Christmas ornament—a memory they’ll cherish! 🎄🔥

Next, we went to JSU Little River Canyon Center, where students gained insight into the important role this area plays in local tourism and education. We wrapped up our day exploring the stunning Little River Canyon National Preserve, taking in the beauty of the falls and learning more about this natural treasure. 🌿🌊

It was an inspiring day full of creativity, natural beauty, and hands-on learning about the vibrant tourism opportunities right here in Cherokee County!

11/04/2025

10/28/2025

🌾 Youth Leadership Cherokee – Agriculture Day! 🌾

Our Youth Leadership Cherokee participants spent the day learning about the vital role agriculture plays in Cherokee County’s economy and community.

They heard from an incredible lineup of speakers, including Rich Lindsey with Cherokee Gin & Cotton Co., Kent Dyer, Rocky Hollow Patch, and Angel Farms. We were also joined by special guest Eric Schavey, Etowah County Extension Agent, who shared valuable insights about agriculture and ag education in our region.

The day wrapped up with a visit to Dixie Green, where students got a firsthand look at one of our county’s thriving agricultural businesses in action.

A big thank you to all who took the time to share their knowledge and passion for agriculture with our Youth Leadership Cherokee class — helping our future leaders better understand one of Cherokee County’s most important industries! 🌱🚜

09/16/2025

✨ Today kicked off the first day of Youth Leadership Cherokee 2025-2026 with our “Meet & Greet” meeting!

We’re excited to have 25 amazing students representing all 5 high schools in Cherokee County. 🙌

A special thank you to Randi Wright, Director of Gadsden State Cherokee Campus, for giving our students a warm welcome to campus as we start the program.

We can’t wait for the months ahead as these young leaders learn more about our county and the opportunities within it. 🌟

📅 Next up: On Tuesday, September 23rd, YLC students will be volunteering at the Chamber’s C.A.S.T. for Kids – Weiss Lake Event. 💙🐟