We have new Diplomats in town! The Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce has selected 17 LHS Juniors and Seniors to participate in this year's Diplomat Program. During the month of September students that were interested in the program went through a series of interviews. This week the program kicked off with a lunch and orientation at Mango's for the students that were selected. Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Sandra McGuire, along with a group of local business professionals, gave the new diplomats an overview of the Chamber's role and impact in our community. 

"We are thrilled to welcome these talented students into our High School Diplomat Program," said Sandra McGuire. "This initiative is a valuable opportunity for these bright students to gain a better understanding of the business world and see how their local Chamber contributes to creating a thriving community."

So what's in store for these Diplomats? 

• Help with the Chamber luncheons and various events the Chamber puts on
• Learn more about the Chamber’s mission to support the city, schools, local businesses, and the community as a whole
• Gain valuable insight into how the Chamber fosters growth and collaboration within Leeds
• Engage directly with community leaders, local businesses, and government officials
• Tour select companies/ have a firsthand look at career opportunities available in the local area
• Go on a bus trip to Chick-fil-A headquarters in Atlanta

Diplomat Participants and Business Leaders (L-R):
Dona Bonnett – adr Business & Marketing Strategies, Rachel Melvin, Casey Parsons – Guild Mortgage, Amy Lee and Sandra McGuire – Leeds Area Chamber, Zyon Powe, Lauren Weems, Allison Alvarez, Lexi Drake, Sophie Gromko, Jalicia Ellis, Wilson Beasley, Clara Beth Hansen, Colton Moody, Molly Moore, Tyler Vandiver, Lilly Dawson, Pat Shipp – Moody Miracle League, Brayden Davis, Helen Poirier, Hannalyse Hudson, Emanuel Vallejo – Kinetic by Windstream, and Janna Joyner – Joyner Firearms Training. (Not pictured: Graham Gulock.)