The Chattooga Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for local high school juniors and seniors to participate in the 2026 Leadership Chattooga Student Edition. The purpose of this program is to provide students with a greater awareness of community issues, needs, services, and resources.

The application process is straightforward, requiring basic information from both the candidate and the school (parents if homeschooled). Interested individuals can apply online through the Chattooga Chamber of Commerce Facebook page or their website, ChattoogaChamber.org. Click on the “What We Do” tab and select “Leadership Development” from the drop-down menu.

Orientation for the program will begin on September 10, with sessions conducted usually the second Wednesday of each month. The course will start with an orientation session led by Heather Casey of Lead Strong 4:14 and Diane Vinyard with Living Life on Target.

This opportunity is limited to twelve participants from Chattooga County, with a minimum age of 18, and no one being too old for the program. Sessions will typically begin at the Civic Center. The Chamber will provide transportation for field trips if available. Participants must be able to board and travel in the county van or make arrangements to be transported in a personal vehicle.

A one-day visit to Atlanta is planned according to the state representative’s schedule and activities happening in the State Capitol and elsewhere in Atlanta. The deadline to nominate is August 29.

For more information about the program, visit the Chattooga Chamber of Commerce website or Facebook page.