On Thursday, Febuary 27, 2025, the Youth Leadership Bulloch Class of 2025 gathered at the Kiwanis Community Center to celebrate the completion of their six-month leadership program. The program is coordinated and led by the Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce.
During the ceremony, Kiwanis Club President Marilyn Darrell addressed the graduates, reflecting on their journey and encouraging them to continue making an impact in their community.
Darrell began her speech with a lighthearted reminder of her first meeting with the class in August, recalling their early-morning session at 7 a.m. and the look of uncertainty on many of their faces. She compared their expressions to those of new freshmen at Georgia Southern University, a group she advised for over 20 years. However, she noted how much they had grown since that day and applauded them for accepting the challenge of learning more about their community.
Throughout the program, students had the opportunity to visit local businesses, meet business owners, and explore the history of Statesboro. Darrell mentioned seeing photos of the class speaking with the Director of the Georgia Southern Museum Brent Tharp, and admiring the city's historic homes, what she called “hidden treasures”. The students also spent time at GSU, learning about its impact on the local economy and education.
Beyond business and education, the students were also introduced to the many “helpers” in the community, nonprofit organizations, local leaders, and those who work to support citizens facing challenges. Darrell emphasized that not everyone has a clear path to success, whether it be access to quality education, reliable transportation, or financial stability. She encouraged the graduates to recognize their own blessings and consider how they can contribute to making the community better for others.
One of the highlights of the program was the students’ visit to the Bulloch County Commissioners chambers, where they experienced firsthand what it’s like to be an elected official. Darrell described it as “a really neat experience” that allowed them to see how local government operates and how decisions are made for the community.
A Challenge to Grow and Give Back
Darrell emphasized that growth is essential, no matter one's age. She encouraged students to continue stepping out of their comfort zones, learning new things, and seeking opportunities to give back. She hoped that some had felt inspired to own a business, work in public service, or volunteer for a cause that spoke to them.
She left them with a guiding question: “If not me, then who?”
Darrell challenged the graduates to ask themselves this question as they move forward in life. She reminded them that everyone has unique gifts and abilities, and it is their responsibility to use those talents to create a better world. Determination, resilience, and hard work are key to overcoming obstacles and achieving success. She shared her own experience helping students get into medical, dental, and pharmacy schools, emphasizing that persistence is the common factor in reaching any dream.
Leadership Through Relationships
While the word leadership has been a central theme of the program, Darrell pointed out that true leadership is about the people around you. She explained that even the greatest leaders rely on strong relationships to achieve success. She urged students to build connections, whether it be with their classmates, college professors, or members of their community.
She also reminded them not to overlook the support of their families, saying, “Your parents and siblings can be your biggest cheerleaders, honor them with your respect and kindness.”
A Call to Make a Difference
In closing, Darrell encouraged the graduates to go out into the world and make a difference, whether in small ways or big ways. She thanked them for their participation in Youth Leadership Bulloch and for supporting Kiwanis Club events like the fair and rodeo, which fund projects that help children in Bulloch County and beyond.
With their newfound knowledge, connections, and sense of responsibility, the Youth Leadership Bulloch Class of 2025 now steps forward with the tools to lead, serve, and create meaningful change in their community.
The Kiwanis Club of Statesboro served as the program’s presenting sponsor, reinforcing its commitment to youth development. Gold Sponsors included Southern Chiropractic & Wellness Center and Thomas & Hutton, while Class Day Sponsors were AT&T, Excelsior EMC, Family Health Care Center, Freedom Through Recovery, and Kickback Shack.
Congratulations to the 2025 Youth Leadership Bulloch Class which included:
- Brady Basquin
- Jayden Brooks
- Angel Cone
- Ja’Kori Cope
- Mixon DeLoach
- Tiyannee Freeman
- Angelica Halaby
- Anna Kase Harrison
- Jadyn Heyward
- Ansley Hinson
- Eastyn Hudgens
- Blaise Jackson
- Ricky Jeffcoat
- Serom Kim
- Kailyn King
- Britton Lane
- Elizabeth Lane
- Henry Lanier
- Jack Lanier
- Dennis Lin
- Caroline Mathis
- Merit O’Mahoney
- Maggie O’Neill
- Charlotte Pagliarullo
- Aryan Patel
- Emme Powell
- Brenigan Priest
- Maddie Ruhland
- Brynnley Ryan
- Grace Shuford
- Isley Simpkins
- Addison Stafford
- Cannon Thompson
- Caroline Wasden
- Chase Waters
As these young leaders graduate, they carry forward a deeper understanding of their community, a strong network of peers and mentors, and a drive to make a difference. With their newfound knowledge, they are poised to step into leadership roles and shape the future of Bulloch County and beyond.
Congrats again to all graduates!