Meet the LCSE Class of 2026:

The Chattooga Chamber proudly introduces the members of this year’s class:

From Chattooga High School: Tyler Floyd, Koi Dodd, LeeAnna Moseley, Beydaly Gabriel-Diaz, Hannah Reynolds, and Cameryn Smith (not pictured).
From Trion High School: Joseph Santamaria, Will Groce, Christian Sanders, Emma Martz, Jocelyn Mitchell, and Isaura Ramirez.

Diane Vinyard, a program trainer, is also pictured with the class.

The Chattooga Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the incoming Leadership Chattooga Student Edition (LCSE) Class of 2026, a diverse group of twelve high school juniors and seniors poised to embark on an eight-month journey of personal growth and community engagement. This year’s class features six promising students from Chattooga High School and six from Trion High School.

The LCSE program, mirroring its successful adult counterpart, is meticulously designed to “equip each individual participant with leadership skills which they can use in their careers and in life, to show them places and introduce them to people in their community, and to give them opportunities to form a bond with the others in the class who may come from different backgrounds and social circles.”

During the comprehensive eight-month program, students will engage with local leadership trainers, including Diane Vinyard with Living Life on Target and Heather Casey with LeadStrong414, to hone essential leadership skills. The curriculum also includes immersive tours throughout Chattooga County, visiting key industries, vital non-profit organizations, and cherished tourist destinations, providing students with a deep understanding of their local community’s fabric.

A highlight of the program is an educational trip to Atlanta, where students will have the invaluable opportunity to visit the State Capitol during a General Assembly session. The trip also includes a visit to the High Museum, where they will explore the folk art section, notably featuring works by local artistic legend Howard Finster.

While the program aims for balanced representation from Chattooga High, Trion High, and homeschool students, this year’s class consists entirely of public school students. “We strive to have four students from each Chattooga, Trion, and homeschool,” explained Cindy McGraw, Executive Director of the Chattooga Chamber. “It didn’t work out for any homeschoolers this year, but we sincerely hope for some to join us next year as we value diverse perspectives.”

High school juniors and seniors interested in participating in the LCSE Class of 2027 are encouraged to reach out for more information. Prospective students can contact their respective CTAE Directors – Angela Culbert at Chattooga High School or Jennifer Patterson at Trion High School – or directly contact Cindy McGraw at the Chattooga Chamber of Commerce via email at execdirector@chattoogachamber.org or by phone at 706.857.4033.