September October 2015 RL MagFINAL

40
September/October 2015
U N D E R
F O R T Y
Five Reasons Why Creativity Matters to Leaders 21st Century Leadership:

Are you digging in the right place? Four Top Technology degrees for
Today's Career Seekers Tips to Turn Kids into Money Masters
RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 1
Contents
6 Forty under 40
Introduction
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD
Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital
publication that highlights every day people doing
extraordinary things nationally and abroad.
www.RuralLeaderMagazine.com
Guest Contributors
John Dentico
Founder LeadSimm, LLC
Kevin Eikenberry
Leadership Guru
The Kevin Eikenberry Group
7 Greetings
RL Magazine's Forty
Under 40 Top Four
11 Charlie Cowart
13 Scott Curry
15 Sasha T. Smith
17 Alvin Williams
20 Five Reasons Why
Creativity Matters to
Leaders
21 Forty under 40
Honorees
26 21st Century Leadership: Are you digging

in the right place?
40 Leadership is lifeNot just a game
49 Four Top Technology Degrees for today's
career seekers
51 Creating Your
Own Personal Pension
It's possible
53 Tips to Turn Kids
into Money Masters at
any Age
55 What's the Makers
Movement about?
Dwight Gelowitz
Entrepreneur
Chris Ruisi
Entrepreneur and Business Coach
Readers Forum
Tell us what you think about our publication, if you have a great idea for a story, or to
just share. We may print your comments in
Rural Leader Magazine. By sending us your
comments, youre giving permission for us to
call you for an interview. Please be sure to include your name, address, email address, and
phone number so we can reach you. Write to
us at info@RuralLeaderMagazine.com
Help us find the next Best Small Town

Restaurant! Call for nominations is ongoing.
Nominate Today!!!
Visit RuralLeaderMagazine.com for details.
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Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part,
in English, or other languages, is
prohibited without written consent.
Send editorial ideas to
Kuanita Murphy, PhD, Editor-in-Chief
editor@ruralleadermagazine.com
Rural Leader Magazine, LLC

245 North Highland Avenue Northeast
Suite #230-1010
Atlanta, Georgia 30307
2 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015
Editors Note
Photo Courtesy of TieFotos
Dear Reader,
Once again, I am pleased to present to you the Second
Annual Forty under Forty issue! I am so proud to showcase these phenomenial young leaders from Alabama,
Florida, and Georgia.
I am sure that you will be amazed at the level of talent,
skill, and achievement represented (See page 11 and 21).
Please join me in congratulating these awesome young
leaders!
Inside this edition, we also included another great batch
of articles on leadership best practices. It is our hope that
you are inspired, encouraged, and renewed.
Sincerely,

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Reader's Voice
Dear Rural Leader Magazine,
Awesome publication! Can't wait
to until the Forty under 40 issue is
released.
Mel W.
Dothan, AL
Thank you for the special feature
article, Your Attitude, Your Choice.
It was timely and highlighted great
tips.
Kim L.
Tallahassee, FL
Thanks for another great issue.
Enjoyed the article, Creative
College Savings. My daughter is a
high school freshman. She is excited about starting her scholarship
search early.
Allana S.
Nashville, TN

I saw a copy of last year's Small
Town America's 100 Most Influential People. I just want to say
thanks for recognizing people in
small communities. The gesture is
long overdue!
Sabrina T.
Columbia, SC
Thanks for another great issue!
John E.
Cuthbert, GA
I really enjoyed the article, How
Self Confidence Impacts Your
Leadership. I gained valuable tips
to enhance my own. Thanks for a
wonderful publication
Katherine I.
Selma, AL

I am requesting more articles like
Three Simple Steps to Reducing
Your Taxable Income. The article
was a great read choke full with
valuable information.
Denise L.
Savannah, GA
Finding the hole in the boat: The
Four Essentials of Strategic Thinking was powerful. Publish more
like it. Thanks in advance.
Linda L.
Seattle, WA
Just wanted to drop a few lines to
let you know: Rural Leader Magazine Rocks!!!
Rhianna K.
Atlanta, GA
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Pediatrics
Womens Health
Dentistry
Podiatry
Psychiatry
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Accepting New Patients!
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www.AAPHC.org
09.11.2001
40
UNDER FORTY
Two Thousand Fifteen Honors

Greetings,
As editor of this great publication, I am pleased to present to you the 2015 Rural Leader
Forty under Forty Honorees. The judges, once more, had the difficult task to select forty
outstanding leaders from Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.
The leaders represent the rich talent, skill, and vast knowledge that can be found in small
town America. I was extremely impressed with the level of expertise and accomplishment
found among this year's honorees. Their exemplary service to the people in small communities is a testament to their dedication. Without such leaders, who pour daily back into the
essence of communities abroad, Small Town America would undoubtedly cease to thrive.
Therefore, I am committed to acknowledging the efforts and contributions of leaders in
small rural communities. I understand all too well the significance of their efforts. My hope
is that the Forty under 40 Honors encourage young leaders in the knowledge that what
they do each day matters.
Without further ado, I present to you the 2015 Rural Leader 40 under 40 Honorees.
P. S.
Pictures of the top four Forty under 40 Honorees were taken in the park in historic Shellman, Georgia.
Respectfully,

Editor-in-Chief and Publisher
September 4, 2015
Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy
Rural Leader Magazine
245 North Highland Avenue Northeast
Suite #230-1010
Atlanta, Georgia 30307
Dear Dr. Murphy,
It is with great pleasure that I offer my congratulations on the Second Annual Rural
Leader Forty under Forty Honors. I applaud you for having esteem vision to acknowledge rural
leaders in Small Town America.
Please extend warm wishes to the forty exemplary young leaders from Alabama, Florida,
and Georgia. They are an exceptional example of what it means to serve and to share their skills
and talents for the greater good of community. I am confident that each will leave a legacy of
service that will long grace this great Nation.
Again, congratulations, and please accept best wishes for a memorable time of
celebration.
STATE OF GEORGIA
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
ATLANTA 30334-0900
Nathan Deal
GOVERNOR
September 4, 2015
To: Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy

GREETINGS:
It is a pleasure to congratulate you on the Second Annual Rural Leader Forty under Forty
Honors. Thank you for your efforts to recognize young leaders in small communities.
I, too, realize the importance of acknowledging the outstanding contributions they give
back daily. They each play an important role in the advancement of their State and communities.
Furthermore, they have influenced the lives of many through service, and I respect and
appreciate their commitment.
I believe that we are stronger because of their dedicated efforts, and I extend my best wishes for
continued success.
Sincerely,
Nathan Deal
ND:zp
Top Four
Charlie Cowart
Age: 34
Hometown: Arlington, Georgia
Profession: Business/Wine Maker
Charlie is a wine maker at Still Pond Vineyard

and Winery, which is owned and operated by the
Cowarts family in Arlington, Georgia. His interest in
agriculture began at an early age. Charlie was influenced by his grandfather, Charlie Cowart, Sr.
The vineyard was started in the late 1960s by
Charlies late grandfather, who supplied wineries and
grocers with fresh Muscadine grapes. In 2003, his
mother and father started the winery, which gave
him a job upon graduating college.
In 2012, Charlie and his father started Still Pond
Distillers, which produces distilled product from the
fruit grown on their farm.
Still Pond Vineyard has 180-acres of Muscadine
grapes, which is no small accomplishment. It is the
largest in the Southeast that produces wine and spirits distributed throughout Georgia. They also supply
other wineries with fresh juice used to make their
wines. Still Pond Vineyard continually increases its
value by expanding product development.
As a result of Charlies leadership, Still Pond

Vineyard continues to add value to what is grown
by producing more products. There is no waste and
every part of the berry is utilized, even the skin and
seed that is sold to produce a nutricutical product.
Still Pond is currently the only winery and distillery
in the Southeastern United States in which all products are produced from what is grown.
Charlie was named Georgias Outstanding Farmer
in 2013. The Georgias Outstanding Young Farmer
award is sponsored by John Deere, U.S. Junior Chamber of Commerce, Outstanding Farmers of America
Fraternity, and the National Association of County
Agricultural Agents. The award was presented at the
annual banquet at the Lake Lanier Islands Resort in
North Georgia in November 2013.
Charlie holds a degree in marketing from Valdosta
State University, and he is a 2010 Leadership Georgia
Alum. He currently resides in Arlington with wife
Stephanie and their son.
Risings Stars in Rural America
Above and Beyond

Top Four
Scott Curry
Age: 37
Hometown: Shellman, Georgia
Profession: Business
Scott currently is executive

vice-president and vice-chairman
of the Board of First State Bank of
Randolph County--the youngest
to serve in the State of Georgia.
He is an Associate Partner of
J.W. Walker Insurance Agency
in Shellman. He is a member of
both Community Bankers Association and the Georgia Bankers
Association, and he serves on
the Leadership board of both.
Scott also serves as chairman of
the Curry Memorial Scholarship
Foundation, which is in memory
of his older brother and provides
a scholarship to a local senior who
has been accepted to college and
plans to return to the area to work
and to live.
While in high school and college, Scott had the opportunity to
travel abroad on several occasions
and studied the Roman/Greek
architecture and Renaissance
artwork, as well as the economies
of the different countries and their
sociology-economic theories,
related to business ownership and
welfare systems. He wrote essays
about his experiences, his studies
and these different practices and
presented them to history, economics and literature classes.
Scott notes that these travel experiences helped him understand
global macro & micro economics much better than just using
text books alone. In addition, he
gained appreciation of architectural and art styles in the United
States and its heavy European
influence.
Scott serves as councilman
and Mayor Pro-tem of the City of
Shellman. He is a member who is
active in civic, cultural and educational philanthropic boards that
include the following: Rotary Club
of Cuthbert as past-president;
Randolph Veterans Association;
Keep Randolph Beautiful; Randolph County Relay for Life; Randolph Arts Council: and Randolph
County Historical Society.
Scott promotes renovation and
preservation of historic buildings
in Shellman and conservation of
resources. He assists in managing
his fathers row-crop farm lease
properties & timber lands and
re-establishing quail habitats in
Southwest Georgia. He enjoys bird
hunting and target shooting.
Scott is an active member of the
First Baptist Church of Shellman.
Regionally, he is also active in the
Albany Museum of Art, a benefactor of the Junior League of Albany,
Ducks Unlimited, Quail Unlimited and Quail Forever Foundation.
Scott is a Magna Cum Laude
graduate of Georgia Southwestern

University; Summa Cum Laude
Graduate of Andrew College; and
an Honor Graduate & Salutatorian of Randolph Southern School,
where he was a member of the 96
Club & Beta Club of Randolph
Southern School. While at Andrew College, he was the recipient
of the Andy Award Scholarship
(4.0 GPA).
Also, while at Georgia Southwestern University, he was the
Recipient of Management &
Financial Departmental Award. A
HOPE & Governors Scholar, he
had a full scholarship for his AS
& BBA degrees. He obtained a
limited license through University
of Georgia for Insurance as well,
after his undergraduate degrees
were conveyed.
Scott has served as a delegate to
the state convention under Representative Gerald Greene & Senator
Michael Meyer Von Bremen. He
lobbies for community banks and
customers in Atlanta through
the CBA & GBA, which are trade
organizations that in addition to
lobbying, focus on consumer education and networking.
Scott is a native of Shellman,
GA, where he and wife, Brandi,
and their two daughters: Lorraine,
4 and Ruthie, 7 months reside.
Above and Beyond
WINNER
Sasha T. Smith
Sasha is 2001 graduate of
Randolph-Clay High School. She
holds an Associates of Arts degree in Elementary Education at
Andrew College (2003); a Bachelor of Science degree (2006) and a
Master of Education degree (2011)
both in Elementary Education at
Albany State University in GA.
Sasha was born in Chertsey
Surrey, England and raised in
Miami Beach, Florida until age
7. Her family then relocated to
Cuthbert.
She is passionate about education
and her students. Initially, Sasha
desired to become a criminal profiler but reconsidered because of
the time demand. She then decided to become an educator because
she enjoyed helping others. More
importantly, she was inspired by
her mother, Denise Toney, who
transitioned from a stay-at-home
mom, to a paraprofessional, to an
educator. Sasha's mother inspired
her to strive to help students develop the necessary skills to lead
productive lives.
Sasha teaches general education students, as well as, individuals with learning challenges
and special needs within a mainstreamed, inclusive classroom.
Her vast knowledge and passion
for education is demonstrated in
the classroom. She enjoys interacting with students, parents, and
other community stakeholders to
encourage their involvement in
education. Sasha understands that
a warm, safe, and caring environ-
Age: 29
Hometown: Cuthbert, Georgia
Profession: Education
ment is foremost to allow students to grow and to explore new

concepts.
Sashas passion for learning and
students were the catalyst to her
involvement in various activities,
such as school committees, task
forces focused on curriculum
development, reading grants, and
textbook review.
She did not truly become
aware of the passion for education
until her fourth year of teaching,
however. When she inquired of
her students a question out of
curiosity and to assess their needs:
What does your teacher value?
The responses moved her to tears
as she realized that her students
believed she genuinely cared for
their well-being and success.
Sasha describes teaching as
a 24/7 profession, however, the
rewards are monumental. Developing core values such as dignity,
respect, perseverance, and determination to work diligently to
acquire results are just a few of the
expectations Sasha has for her students. She expects and encourages
each student to have self confidence in everything.
Their motivation and success
fuels her passion for teaching.
Sasha believes that each day is
a journey filled with triumphs
and trials, but it is those priceless
moments that make teaching all
well worth it. She is encouraged
when former students describe the
profound impact she had.
Throughout her tenure, Sasha

has had students to be removed
from their families and placed in
foster care, lose parents in death,
deal with the effects of domestic
violence or poverty and just lose
sight of the vision that was once
held before them. She believes
her duty is to bring a beacon of
light back into their eyes and to be
there when they feel alone.
Daily, Sasha strives to make
a positive difference in each of
her students' lives. Therefore, she
believes that the classroom is like
a home, and she and the students
are a family. So, she strives to
create a learning environment that
allows everyone to feel comfortable enough to lean upon each
other for knowledge, support, and
inspiration.
Sasha employed her leadership
ability to enhance not only her
student learning, but also work
environment. She supervised,
trained, and utilized assistant
teachers and volunteers skills abilities in the classroom to enhance
student learning. She effectively utilized technology, such as
Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel,
PowerPoint, IPad2, Elmo, Animoto, Plickers, to improve student
motivation and performance.
Sasha was named 2015 Teacher
of the Year at Saint Marys Elementary School in Columbus, GA,
where she is currently employed.
She resides in Cuthbert with her
husband, Pharon and Adary, 11.
Above and Beyond
Top Four
Alvin Williams
Age 32
Hometown: Edison, Georgia
Profession: Education/Local Government
Alvin is a 2001 graduate of Calhoun County High School. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast
Communications (2005) from Alabama State University; and a Masters of Art and a Master of Education
(2010) degree in Middle Grades Education both from Albany State University. In 2015, Alvin attained a degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Valdosta State University.
Alvin also believes in giving back to community, therefore being a servant leader is foremost to Alvin. He
believes the adage that to whom much is given, much is required. Whatismore, he cherishes the fact that he
must live servant-hood. Serving others is the one of the highest forms of leadership. Armed with this knowledge and a strong desire to be a positive role model, in 2008, he decided to run for the school board to make
a difference in the lives of children and families. Alvin was elected at the age of 25, becoming among the
youngest in the state to serve in such capacity. He served as vice-chair from 2009-2012. Since January 2013,
Alvin has served as chair.
The Florida-born Georgia-bred leader is also a man of faith, who is involved in community. Alvin is a
faithful member of Turner Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Edison. He currently serves this organization as a deacon. Alvin is also a summer league softball coach. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time
with family and friends, reading, and exercising.
Alvin is also a former award-winning journalist. In 2004, he was awarded Best Sports Story, an Associated
Press award, while working at a station in Montgomery, AL. He is also a freelance videographer, photographer, and public speaker.
Currently, he is employed as a Broadcast Video Design Instructor by the Dougherty County Schools System. In this role, he strives to engage students in the use of multimedia to construct and convey knowledge
with the integration of text, graphics, animation, sound, and video. He was inspired to pursue this career
path after attending several career days while in Alabama. Consequently, Alvin discovered his passion for the
medium and the joy of engaging with students.
Above and Beyond

We Proudly Salute
The 2015 Rural Leader
Forty Under 40 Honorees
Perkins Funeral Home

Our Family Serving Your Family, Because We Care
Thomas J. Bailey, Jr.,

L.F. D. Mortician, Owner
153 Villa Nova Street

Cuthbert, Georgia 39840
www.PerkinsFuneralService.com
229-732-3896
Five Reasons
Why Creativity Matter to Leaders
By Kevin Eikenberry
Two of the most popular topics of workshops and
tum.
business books are creativity and leadership.
Creativity provides solutions. Have a problem?
Both are popular because at some deep intuitive level (What business or organization does not?) Creativmost everyone knows they are both are worthwhile
ity is required to determine the root cause of the
skills to have and to develop. However, while both
problem and to identify solutions. You can`t solve a
are important and valued, they aren`t always talked
problem with the same thinking that caused it. We
about in tandem.
need to bring our creativity to the table whenever we
Does creativity require leadership? Not necessarily.
are solving a problem.
Does leadership require creativity? Only if you
And One More...These first four reasons have
want to be truly successful. Why is that? Why do the talked about the leadership value of creativity, but
best leaders exhibit and use creativity to create great
they have been largely focused on personal creativity.
results? I can think of at least five reasons why the
The last reason why creativity matters to leaders isn`t
very best leaders are highly creative; any one of which about you but is about those you lead.
should be reason enough for all leaders to focus on
valuing and using creativity more often.

Five Reasons Creativity Matters
Creativity is inherent in the leadership role. I often
say and write that the status quo requires no leadership. This is a profound truth. Everything about
your role as a leader is about creating new and better
results and moving in a direction towards a desired
Creativity engages everyone and creates ownership.
future. Without creativity it will be difficult to identi- In the end your creativity isn`t enough. A great
fy that future destination, and impossible
leader uses his/her creativity in private, but in public
to reach it. While you may not have thought about it
focuses first on engaging, encouraging and stimulatin these terms, you can`t successfully lead others to
ing the creativity of others. Our job isn`t to come up
any place new without the use of creativity.
with the great idea on our own, but rather to create
Creativity creates new ideas. Duh. But the obvian environment where great ideas and creativity is
ous can`t be overlooked! Perhaps another way to
nurtured and the ideas flow from the team.
say this is that creativity allows us to take advantage
If you want to improve your leadership skills and
of opportunities. If you are leading people towards
results including your creativity now is the time
new product development, new markets, new anyto take advantage of The Remarkable Leadership
thing, then leading with creativity is required! You
Learning System a one skill at a time, one month
can`t achieve new things without new ideas, and as a at a time approach to becoming a more confident
leader you must be at the front of thinking creatively and successful leader. You can get two months of
about these opportunities.
that unique system for free as part of our Most Re Creativity creates energy and momentum. Have
markable Free Leadership Gift Ever today at http://
you ever gotten excited about a new idea? Have you
MostRemarkableFreeLeadershipGiftEver.com and
ever felt the adrenaline rush and subsequent produc- become the leader you were born to be.
tivity that comes with it? If you have, then you know
About The Author
exactly what I mean. When we are personally exerKevin is an author, speaker, trainer, consultant and
cising our creativity, we get those short and long term the Chief Potential Officer of the Kevin Eikenberbursts of energy. More importantly, when we work
ry Group. Learn more at KevinEikenberry.com, a
with our teams in creative endeavors, the energy is
learning consulting company that helps organizashared and expanded across the group, and that
tions, teams and individuals unleash their leadership
shared energy can create powerful forward momenpotential.
40
UNDER FORT Y
Letitia E. Bell, 38
Hometown: Plain, Georgia

Profession: Criminal Justice
Letitia was born and reared in Plains, Georgia, home of the 39th President. She earned an
associate degree from Albany Technical College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice at Albany State University. Letitia
graduated from Walden University in 2011
with a Master of Science degree in Psychology
(2011).
She began her career as a correctional officer
at Macon State Prison in Oglethorpe, Georgia.
Letitia loves her work and making a difference
in the lives of others whenever possible. In
2014, Letitia was promoted to Chief Counselor
at Autry State Prison in Pelham, Georgia.
Charlie Bradley, III, 39
Hometown: Waynesboro, Georgia

Profession: Entrepreneur/Graphic Designer
With an interest in art and science since the
4th grade, Charlie Bradley III turned the passion into a career of creativity. Art competitions
and exceeding in science dotted the landscape
of his early to teenage years. Charlie earned a
Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at Valdosta State
University in 1998, with his focus mainly in the
area of design.
He began work in the newspaper industry
as a graphic artist at the Valdosta Daily Times,
South Georgia Printing facility in 1999, gaining experience in marketing, advertising and
corporate communications while honing his
design skills. In 2000, he accepted a position at
The Augusta Chronicle as a graphic designer.
Above and Beyond
Above and Beyond

While there Charlie advanced within the company,
working in their retail & classified advertising departments and production department. During his
time with The Augusta Chronicle, Charlie won 11
Georgia Press Association Awards for his adverting
designs. In 2007, Charlie decided to go the independent route and start his own small business, Third
Designs.
Third Designs specializes in fine art, graphic
design, and photography with a cliental from the
Augusta, Georgia area and throughout the United
States. As a graphic designer, Charlie creates logo
designs, print page designs, publication layouts, marketing & advertising designs, copywriting, digital &
freehand illustration, photography, social media marketing, web graphics preparation, and web coding
and design. He has a loyal following on Facebook,
Twitter, Instagram and various other social media
platforms.
In addition to operating Third Designs, Charlie
works also with a local media company in Augusta as
a member of their creative services team as a graphic designer. What is more, Charlie is very active in
creative, entrepreneurial, technology, and networking
organization in the Augusta area. He is also an advocate for education. Charlie speaks at local schools
about the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and STEAM (Science,
Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) education
and careers.
Charlie is happily married to his wife, Shirley,
of 15 years, and together they have three children.
In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his
family, painting and photography.
Paul Bronson, 28
Hometown: Macon, Georgia

Profession: Entrepreneur/Community Activist
Paul Williams Bronson is the son of Kenneth and
Carita Bronson of Macon, Georgia. Mr. Bronson
is a young entrepreneur with a vision to better his
home town one district at a time. Since 2001, he has
worked to better himself through educational advancement and leadership development. Mr. Bronson served his community as a Fire Fighter for Bibb
County, while attending Georgia Military College.
While still attending Central High School, he
signed an early enlistment contract with the Georgia Army National Guard, and later switched to the
U.S. Army Reserves at the rank of Captain under the
Army Medical Department. Recently, Paul earning
his Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Fort
Valley State University, and he is now pursuing his
PhD in Clinical Medical Psychology. Mr. Bronson
is focused on serving those who have served, but
extends that same drive in bettering his community
as well.
His involvement in the community led him to run
for the office of Mayor of Macon in 2011, elected as a
delegate for the state of Georgia in 2012, and recently selected for the White House 2015 Internship
Program under the Office of Presidential Personnel.
Through his development, Paul is now the CEO and
President of Kings Men Foundation, Inc. that aims to
mentor, lead, and develop the young men of Georgia,
Above and Beyond

and looks to promote change and equality across
the nation and motivate others to see that they are
powerful beyond measure.
Valarie Burke, 23
receive the CPA license after completing two years of

public accounting experience
Keisha Burks, 37
Hometown: Benevolence, Georgia

Hometown: Bainbridge, GA
Profession: Nonprofit Administration
Profession: Accountant
Keisha is the daughter of Bennie and Dorothea
Valarie Burke is an auditor for one of the worlds
Burks, and she is a 1996 graduate of Randolph-Clay
leading public accounting firms, Price Waterhouse
High School. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree
Coopers, LLP. Valarie is practicing accountancy as a
in Organizational Management (2014) from Ashford
risk assurance associate in Charlotte, NC, specifically University and an Associates in Business Administraproviding process assurance for financial services
tive Technology at Albany Technical College. Curclients. Valarie has a great work ethic and has always rently, she is pursuing a Master of Science degree in
gone above and beyond to put forth her best.
Early Childhood Studies-Teaching and Diversity in
Valarie's contributions to the community focus
Early Childhood Education from Walden University.
on youth education and financial literacy. She has
Though she has no biological children, she has a
participated in Junior Achievement in affiliation with passion for children. Several years ago, she became a
her collegiate organization and employer. Valarie also foster parent as way to give back to children in need.
demonstrates her leadership ability by joining efforts Recently, she adopted three children and presently
within her firm to promote diversity through race,
fostering three.
gender, and culture.
Keisha is a Leadership Randolph, Regional Eco Valarie received both her Bachelor of Business Ad- nomic Leadersip Development, and an Academy for
ministration in Accounting and Master of Accountthe Association County Commissioners of Georgia
ing degrees from Georgia Southern University, where (ACCG) Leadership Aluma. She is also a Certified
she was a student from the years 2009 - 2014. Valarie Local Government Finance Officer II via the Carl
graduated from graduate school while maintainVinson Institute of Government.
ing a 3.75 GPA. During her collegiate years, Valarie
Keisha strives to utlize her leadership skills to serbecame a member of both Beta Alpha Psi Fraternivice to others. Therefore, she is also very active in her
ty and Delta Sigma Pi Fraternity, where she served
community. She is an active member of Benevolence
various leadership roles.
Baptist Church. She serves as the churchs assistant
Upon graduation, Valarie completed the Certified secretary and member of the young adult choir.
Public Accountant (CPA) exam and will be eligible to She is also the vice president of the Street PhanRuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 23
toms Motorcycle Club, where she serves as vice president. The Street Phantoms Motorcycle Club actively
sponsors and supports community events, such as
visiting local nursing homes, raising funds to support
Breast Cancer Awareness, and visiting local schools
reading books to children.
Keisha also volunteers at Randolph County Head
Start. She served as Policy Council Chair and secretary to the parent organization.
In addition to being a mother of six, a student,
and a community volunteer, Keisha works full-time
at Volunteers of America as an Administrative Assistant and Property Managerat the Millenniem Center
in Cuthbert. .
twelve years.
Derricks accolades are extensive. He is the recipient of the Boys and Girls Club Best Teen Program in
the State of Georgia for two consecutive years (2002
and 2003). He is the recipient of the Best Teen Director award (2008-2010). In 2010, Derrick received
the Boys and Girls Club Association National Honor
Award for Program Excellence in sports, fitness, and
recreation. In 2014, he received two Boys and Girls
Club Association National Honors for Program of
the Year for best program and in education.
In 2015, Derrick also became the Healthy Lifestyles Director for the Boys and Girls Club of Hall
County. In this capacity he is responsible for member
safety, program development, implementing membership best practices, and building member-relationships.
Derrick Caldwell, 37
Hometown: Gainsville, GA
Profession: Nonprofit Management
Derrick is an all-around go-getter. He is holds
a Bachelor of Science degree at West Texas A&M
University in General Studies and holds an associate
degree in education (1998) at Allan Hancock Community College. He also has certifications in peer
counseling; and certifications in the Boys and Girls
Club of America Advanced Leadership (2008) and
the Learning Club, Boys and Girls Club of America.
Derrick serves currently as the Unit Director for
the Teen Center at the Boys and Girls Club of Hall
County, Georgia, since 2004. Derrick employs his
extensive leadership skills daily to plan and to oversee the administration of clubhouse programs and
activities that support youth development outcomes
for over 200 youth and teens.
His exemplary leadership skills were instrumental
to the growth of the clubs growth from 800-2,900
member-units in less than 5 years, which exceeded
the membership target for the first year. He also built
and successfully maintains a strong relationship with
the Atlanta Falcons Boy mentor program, for the past
Darius Carswell, 38
Hometown: Irvington, Georgia

Profession: Athlete/Human Services Consultant
Darius grew up in Irwinton Georgia attended
the public school system and later Brewton Parker
College and began his professional career working in
the field of human service sector; with the Methodist
Home for Children and Youth, The Phoenix Center
BHS for nine and a half years, and most recently as
the Family Life and Sex Ed. Coordinator for Morehouse School of Medicines Carrera Program. His
passion directed him to work with a wide range of
clients from Corporate America to elementary age
students.
Darius continues to serve in the field of human
service as an independent consultant for organizations, school districts and faith groups seeking to
convey the message of substance abuse awareness
and prevention, as well as teenage pregnancy prevention.
During his tenure at Brewton Parker College,
Above and Beyond
his energy as an athlete was directed to the sport

of baseball. Based on his dedication to the sport,
he later went on to play in a few semi-pro leagues,
which awarded him extensive travel throughout the
United States playing competitive softball. Darius has
received two World Championships in the past three
seasons.
Darius and his wife reside in Bonaire, Georgia.
They have been blessed with three energetic daughters. Along with softball his passion for hunting,
fishing, and painting provide refuge and support.
Beth Davis, 36
Fadara Clark, 36

Profession: Educator
Fadara is a 1997 graduate of Randolph Clay High
School. She is the daughter of Fady Clark and the
late Georgia Clark. She holds a Bachelors of Science
degree in early childhood education at Albany State
University. She enjoys teaching and mentoring young
people.
After her mothers passing in October 2013, Fadara created a program, Camp Georgia for Kids, that
would exemplify the essence of her mothers passion
for teaching and a testament to the young people she
inspired.
Camp Georgia serves youth ages 5-13 for four
weeks during the summer. Participants receive tutoring in math and reading, mentoring, and fun-activities, such as art and dance. Camp Georgia provides
much needed safe and structured activities for youth
in the small rural community of Randolph County.
Hometown: Parrott, Georgia

Profession: Higher Education
Beth holds an Associate of Science degree in
Psychology (2003) from Middle Georgia College, a
Bachelors of Science degree in Psychology (2003) at
Georgia Southwestern State University, and a Masters
of Post-Secondary Education with a concentration
in Higher Education Administration and Psychology
(2011) at Troy State University.
Beth has over eight years of experience in higher
education. She is a Six Sigma Green Belt in Quality
Assurance Specialist and the Quality Group and Albany Technical College (ATC). She was 2011 Employee of the Year at ATC. She also received Albany
Tech Internal Customer Service training (2008).
She is a member of the Georgia Association of
International Educators (GAIE), Georgia Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers
(GACRAO), and the Georgia College Testing Association (GCTA).
She is involved in her work environment. She was
a member of ATCs Achieving the Dream Data Team
(2012-2013), Student Disciplinary (2009-(2011).
She also volunteers for the American Cancer Society
Relay for Life and Rotary International-Rotary Club
of Cuthbert.
Beth is currently the Director of Student Affairs at
Albany Technical College-Randolph County Learning Center in Cuthbert. She and her husband Duane
reside in Cuthbert.
21st Century Leadership:

Are You Digging In The Right Place?
By John Dentico
Complexity, rapid change, information overload,

meaningful work and endeavors, enormously difficult decisions and a global economic malaise are but
a few of the daunting challenges that face people in
organizations today. Perhaps no time in history has
the need for bold and effective leadership been more
needed, demanded or required. Yet it seems the ability to respond to this call for leadership is inadequate
because by some expert accounts leadership development is going nowhere fast. These are the findings
of the last two biennial global leadership forecasts
conducted by Development Dimensions International where on average more than 14,000 executives and
HR managers from over 70 countries were surveyed.
Just think of it, after spending billions of dollars on
talent management initiatives, on behavioral screening, on performance measurement equations and
metrics, leadership development is going nowhere
fast? How can this be? Where are the leaders, where
is the leadership? Perhaps the answer lays in a lesson
from the movie Indiana Jones and The Raiders of
the Lost Arc. As Indy and Sallah learned when they
searched for the Well of the Souls in hopes of finding
the Arc of the Covenant, make sure your digging in
the right place!
Say the word leadership and it means different
things to different people even though many are
drawn to the notion of a positional or heroic leader.
In 1978 James MacGregor Burns, the patriarch of
leadership thought in America, wrote that the predominant leadership approach tends often uncon-
sciously to be elitist; it projects heroic figures against

the shadowy background of drab powerless, masses.
In the idea economy, where Peter Drucker has pronounced the knowledge worker as the leading class,
this notion of leadership is an aberration completely
out of touch with the reality of todays world. Have
you been on the Internet lately-- not a really drab
and powerless place?
Yet it seems we continue to dig in the same place
although at a frenzied pace. That place is marked by a
factory mindset--an industrial perspective portrayed
as an indescribable set of traits fully owned by the
leader who sits at the top of the organization. In the
factory mindset, whatever the leader does is leadership. All we have to do is make better leaders follow
their orders and we will be saved!
The fact is that the ideas and principles of the leadership models built for industrial times are grossly
limited and in-congruent for an interconnected,
extremely aware, technology and information enraptured society. A society that is surrounded by rapid
complex change and charged with making infinitely
difficult decisions and who, at the core of its being,
seeks purpose and meaning from the work it does.
In this environment, the job of leaders is changing
dramatically as innovation, leadership and learning at all levels of an organization have become the
lynchpins of creative success. 21st century leadership
must focus on melding a multitude of diverse talent
Continued on page 29
Above and Beyond
Nakoasha Nikki Dillard, 28
Hometown: Albany, Georgia

Profession: Author/Social Services
Nakoasha, or Nikki as she is called by friends, is an
Albany, Georgia native whose newly released book,
Surviving College While Raising a Toddler is an
inspiring account of a young womans ability to journey through the challenges of being a single parent
while pursuing higher education. With ambition and
determination to excel, she earned an Associate of
Science Degree from Darton State College, a second
associates degree from Albany Technical College,
and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Albany
State University, within 4 years.
Nakoasha is also a recent graduate of the Albany
Area Chamber of Commerce Strive2Thrive Community Initiative that is designed to support the
transition of local families into self-sufficiency and
prosperity via life coaching, personal and professional development, education, training, and community
service.
Post-graduation, Nakoasha accepted the charge to
serve as a Lead Coach for Strive2Thrive families. Her
participation in Strive2Thrive, commitment to youth
development and outreach programs at Rhema Word
Cathedral has proven to be a great base for what
would soon become a movement.
Her spiritual foundation, story of hardships, and
triumphs serve as her platform as an Author, Advocate, and Overkomer. Nakoasha activates her passion to effectively impact the lives of young women
in the area of positive character building through
Project OverKome. She participates in seminars,
and workshops hosted by community organizations,
high Schools, colleges, and universities across Georgia, with the message that trials ultimately become
triumph. Nakoashas efforts serve as an inspiration to
single mothers of all ages; reminding women that no
matter what life brings, one should always embrace
the unexpected.
With her incessant desire for higher education,
Nakoasha is currently pursuing a Master of Public
Health (M.P.H.), and has future aspirations of earning a Degree in Epidemiology. Above all, her passion
to build sustainable communities has driven her
dedication to understand, develop, and empower
women and youth to become transformative citizens.
She aspires to stay connected with local organizations
and activities that uplift young women and reflect
positivity in the community. She currently resides in
Albany, Georgia with her son Cayden.
Robert Goodman, 39

Profession: Business Finance
Robert graduated from Randolph-Clay High
School in 1994. He was an honor graduate who
received numerous awards related to both academics and sports. In high school, Robert received the
Rotary Service Above Self Award. Later, he attended
and graduated from Valdosta State University in 1999
with a degree in business marketing.
While at Valdosta State University, he served as the
VSU Football Team Equipment Manager
from 1994 1998, working with Coaches Hal
Mumme, Mike Leach, Dana Holgerson and Chris
Hatcher. He also held an office in the Kappa Alpha
Order serving as Parliamentarian his senior year and
received the Kappa Alpha Order Gentleman of the
Year Award.
Following graduation from VSU, he worked for
Applied Industrial Technology for 3 years, initially
working in Customer Service and was promoted to
the Service Center Manager after one year. From
2002 until 2014, Robert was employed with Occidental Benefits (Employee Benefits) as their Broker/
Consultant, where he managed, serviced and sold
employee benefits to employers from 50-2000 employees. He played a major role in growing this
company from a book of business of $250K to over
$1million. Occidental Benefits was acquired by
Regions Insurance March 2014 and Robert became
an Employee Benefits Broker and Consultant. This
transition moved him into a production role and out
of the managing and servicing aspect of the business.
Robert notes that this has been a beneficial move in
his career because it has allowed him to grow personally and to better serve his clients with a very diverse
support staff of Senior HR professionals.
Robert is a member of the National Association
of Health Underwriters (NAHU). The Birmingham
local chapter, Robert served as the 2010 Education
Committee Chair, the 2011 Legislative Chair, the
2012 & 2013 President Elect, and is currently President. In the Alabama State Chapter, Robert served as
the 2011 Education Committee Chair, 2012 Legislative Chair, 2013 Legislative and HUPAC Chair, and
in 2014 & 2015 he is the President Elect. Serving
in these leadership roles, Robert has attended the
National Association Capital Conference from 2012
to present, where he meets with elected officials and
staff to educate them on the industry and discuss
bipartisan bills being introduced in the House and
Senate they should co-sponsor and support. In 2013
and 2014, Robert achieved the distinguished recognition of Leading Producers Round Table (LPRT).
Robert is a man of faith. He is a member of River
Chase United Methodist Church. Along with his
wife, Heidi, he organized a young families group to
enhance fellowship. He also taught a Sunday School
class for the last three years. Recently, he was asked
to serve on the Board of Stewards.
Robert serves on the board of Live for Love, which
is a local community non-profit outreach ministry.
He is also a member of the National Association of
Health Underwriters where he has served and continues to serve in a leadership position in both the
Birmingham and Alabama Chapter.

Robert currently lives in Helena, AL, with his wife
Heidi Sapp Goodman from Vidalia, GA and their 2
children, Anna Beth, 8 and Jack, 6.
Shavon Goodwin, 34
Hometown: Powder Springs, Georgia

Profession: Author/Entrepreneur
Shavon Goodwin is a savvy mother of six with a
business acumen and a drive for success. Though
she has a background in cosmetology, Shavon has
become relatively a jack-of-all trades utilizing life
challenges as a stepping stone to a greater future.
Shavon has overcome so much in life that she
openly shares her testimony with others. It her hope
to inspire others to strive for excellence. She is the
proud author of A Princess in Me, a childrens book
that was released in the spring of 2014. Shavon is also
the co-author of Simply Beautiful 2, which will be
released 2016. Also to be released in 2016, is her new
book called, Maintain My Frame, which details how
to maintain a healthy lifestyle
She is currently working on her first autobiography that will be released in 2017 entitled, When you
know you have a purpose. If book writing were not
enough, Shavon is trying her hand a playwriting as
well. She is working on her first state play entitled,
Wretch Like Me.
Her faith is a strong component in her life. Shavon
is a faithful member of Burnt Hickory Baptist
Church. There she serves as part of the churchs hospital Continued on page 31
Above and Beyond
21st Century Leadership, cont'd from page 26

and individual ability into collaborative, interdepen
dent, and unified action capable of addressing the
most complex and intractable issues and challenges.
The challenge for all 21st century leaders is to create
environments built on mutual trust and continuous
learning where participants in these leadership-dynamics are fully engaged, derive meaning, take ownership and responsibility for the results, and come to
do their best work each and everyday.
In the 21st Century, organizations must expand
their thinking and act outside of the box with a
notion of leadership that views participants as fully
involved partners that bring talent, energy, creativity
and combined action to bear on the issues at hand.

In the 21st Century leadership is no longer a noun,
but a verb where the actions of a committed group
of people teach us that leadership is what people do
together. Perhaps, it has always been so. Now, start
digging!
About The Author
Dr. John Dentico is a leadership development and
simulation-learning expert who speaks, writes,
consults and trains 21st Century leaders. He is the
founder of LeadSimm LLC a one-of-a-kind 21st Century leadership development and
simulation learning company.
We all live under the same sky,

but we don't all have the same horizon.
Konrad Adenauer
Leadership Let Me Give it to You As Straight As I Can

By Chris Ruisi
If youre like me, you recognize that becoming an

effective leader demands hard work and commitment. It requires more than just reading but actual
doing and learning from your experiences. Sometimes when we are in the doing mode we forget
some of what we have read and then realize after the
dust settles that there was a different or additional
technique that you should have tried. At times like
this, I wish that I had a pocket reminder so that
when it gets confusing I would have a simple guide to
help me.
Having said this, I am not suggesting that there
is either a simple or one size fits all approach to
leadership. As I said several lines up - becoming an
effective leader demands hard work and commitment
on your part. It requires more than just reading but
actual doing and learning from your experiences.
But, if a simple pocket reminder helps you on
your leadership development journey, then so be it;
as the title of this post reads, let me give it to you as
straight as Ican.
I looked back over my 35+ years of corporate
experience and every leadership position I have held
and have come up with these five traits that, when all
else failed, helped get the leadership job done each
time:
Listening - one of the most important standards I
set for any team I lead was that it was

impossible for them to over-communicate with me.
I found that when my team could see that I was genuinely interested in what they had to say, the quality
of their communications improved.
Being in the game 100% of the time - wherever I
was, regardless of the topic or situation, I was there
100% or as some would say, I was in the present.
Nothing would distract me from the task at hand.
Some would say Come on Chris, get real! All leaders
have lots on their mind. Thats true but multi tasking at the wrong time can be multi dumb! Missing
one key element in a situation could prove to be a
disastrous surprise later on. And guess who would be
responsible for it? You!
Preparation - this is the simplest of all leadership
traits to develop, yet it is the one that
most would be leaders fail to properly address. The
ability to prepare is one of the most important habits
you can develop, nurture and maintain. You would
be amazed at how simple things become when you
take the time to prepare for what needs to be done.
Have an open mind - I found that I was most effective when I would try to identify othe
elevant options. It was my job to choose the right
option or course. To do that, I had to keep an open
Cont'd on page 52
Above and Beyond
Goodwin, cont'd from page 28

ministry. Shavon also the team leader of the churchs
group called Anchored, which is a group for young
mothers. She also serves as a mentor for a teen mom
group called Moms for Moms at Marietta High
School Georgia.
Shavon is also featured in a documentary entitled
Head Ladies in Charge (HLIC), which is now playing
in select theatres across the country. She currently resides in Powder Springs, Georgia with her six
beautiful children: DeAira, 17, DeAsia, 12, DeAuna,
11, DaMaya, 7, Destiny, 4, and Divine, 2. Learn more
about her business on her blog at ResilenTempress.
EmpowerNetwork.com.
Jeffrey Haynes, 36
Hometown: Arlington, Georgia

Profession: Ministry/Entrepreneur/Local Gov't
The Honorable Commissioner Jeffery Haynes is
not only a diligent, hardworking businessman; but
respectfully, an active political activist in his community. Pastor Jeffery Haynes credits his unwavering
faith in God as a factor to the numerous successes in
business, in the church, and in the community.
Born the second of five siblings to Jerome Haynes,
Sr. of Blakely, GA and Joyce Ann Hope of Albany,
Georgia, Haynes knew struggle at a very early age.
When he was two years old, Haynes spent months
going back and forward to hospitals as he wrestled
with the sick-a-cell trait. Doctors originally thought
that he would not live very long, but due to the

prayers of his mother and grandmother, Annie Lyles,
Haynes spent most of his youth in the church, singing. After overcoming leg braces and severe sickness,
Haynes would later graduate the top 10% of his class
at Calhoun County High School. Haynes graduated with honors and also received several awards
including Senior Superlative, voted Most Likely To
Succeed by his class, the Academic Scholar Award
(student-athlete with the highest gpa), and led his
tennis team to top eight in the state. Haynes would
later play college tennis at Darton College in Albany,
Georgia.
Haynes received his AA in Early Childhood Education, his AA in Early Childhood Program Management, and his AA in Early Childhood Specialities
from Albany Technical College. He is the owner of
Jeff s Furniture Stores in Blakely, Moultrie, and Cuthbert, Georgia. He is the Senior Pastor of the New
Bethel Missionary Baptist Church of Fort Gaines,
Georgia and the Senior Pastor of the Saint Mathis
Missionary Baptist Church of Blakely, Georgia.
Haynes was the first African-American elected to the
Early County Board of Commissioners in 2012. He
was also the first African-American to receive certification from the University of Georgia.
He presently serves as the only certified commissioner on the sitting board. Haynes has served on
the Early County Public Safety Board since 2012 and
was elected Chairman of the Board 2015. He also
helped form the 5th Sunday Union, a group of seven
churches working together in Early County to bring
economic and social change.
Currently, Haynes is married to Jessica Lanette
Cannon-Haynes of Arlington, Georgia. Together
they have eight children whom are all gifted and
talented not only in academics, but music as well.
Haynes believes in teaching and practicing strong
family values. He feels that families are the key to
bringing the nation together and building back our
communities. Haynes believes that in all that he
does, he considers servanthood an honor. He believes to serve his fellow man before self is a reward
enough in all that he does.
Angela H. Jackson, 36

Profession: Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Angela is a 1995 graduate of Randolph-Clay High
School. She also holds a bachelors degree in criminal
justice from St. Leo University (1998). She has been
in law enforcement for the past 17 years as a prison
and community supervisor. In this role, her supervision duties ranged from correctional officer, corrections sergeant, counselor, and most recently Senior
Parole Officer.
She was named Department of Corrections Officer
of the Year in 2004. Angelas passion is to help the judicial system with its efforts to reduce the recidivism
rate of convicted felons within in the community and
in the prison population. Angela received a number
of advanced training and certifications throughout
her law enforcement career. Thus, her contributions
are vast within the law enforcement community.
She coordinates and facilitates Substance Abuse
and MRT (Moral Reconation Therapy) courses. The
course is designed to provide rehabilitation and to
assist the offender with utilizing his or her cognitive
skills with an effort to reduce recidivism.
Angela was nominated as the lead MRT coordinator for the Northeast District #26 office in 2014. In
January 2015, Angela was promoted to Field Training
Officer (FTO) for the Northeast Metro Region in
Atlanta, Georgia. Her duties as FTO duties consist of
training newly hired officers for the Georgia Board of
Pardons and Parole.
Angela is married to George and together they
have three children: Geornecia, Geordan, and Georiah.
Kwanjalein Jackson, 37
Hometown: Fort Gaines, Georgia

Kwanjalein was born in Miami, Florida but grew
up in the quaint town of Fort Gaines, Georgia. In
1996, she graduated from Randolph Clay High
School. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in
Education at Albany State University (2001). In 2008,
she earned a Masters of Science degree in Education
at Troy State University in Phenix, Alabama.
Kwanjalein loves working with young people, so
she decided to become a teacher. She taught at Randolph County Elementary School for eleven years.
During her tenure at RCES, she was named Afterschool Program Teacher of the Year (2010-11). She
believes that all students are capable of learning; and
that all student achievement is dependent on several
key factors: a conducive learning environment, an
effective teacher, differentiated instruction, and technological assistance. She believes that if the above
factors are evident, learning will occur.
Kwanjalein is also a proud member of Delta Sigma
Theta Sorority, Inc. In 2015, She was named Teacher
of the Year at Clay County Elementary School in Fort
Gaines, Georgia, where she currently teaches math
and science.
A true leader is humble enough

to admit his mistake.-Unknown
Above and Beyond
Name: Jennifer Jenkins

Age: 32
Hometown: Cuthbert, GA
Profession: Educator/Entrepreneur
Jennifer is the daughter of Susie and Phillip Shaw
and Mr. and Mrs. Tommie Atkinson. She is also the
granddaughter of Carol L. Peterson and the late Kenneth E. Peterson of Cuthbert and Mr. and Mrs. Leon
Brown of Cuthbert and Felix Atkinson of Mobile,
Alabama.
She is a 2001 graduate of Randolph-Clay High
School. She graduated in 2005 from Valdosta State
University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early
Childhood Education. In 2010, she graduated from
Albany State University with a masters degree in
early chilhood education.
She loves teaching and giving back to others. She
was also a kindergarten teacher at Randolph County
Elementary School in Cuthbert for six years and was
nominated for Teacher of the Year.
Jennifer is very involved in her community and
is an active member of Enterprise Baptist Church.
There she serves as the praise and worship leader,
teaches youth Sunday school, and art and crafts for
Vacation Bible School.
In her spare time, she enjoys singing, gardening,
beach trips, and painting. She and her husband
started their own business, The Pink Barn, which
spealizes in making custom wood projects and door
hangers.
Currently, Jennifer is serving her 4th year as a
Kindergarten/First Grade loop at Pataula Charter
Academy in Edison, Georgia. She is also the vice
president of PTO and co-chair of PCA's Relay for
Life team. She currently resides in Edison, Georgia
with her husband Eric and two children: Owen, 4
and Maddox, 2.
Name: Britney Johnson

Age: 26
Hometown: Shellman, GA
Profession: Business/Non-profit Founder
Britney is very involved in her community and
enjoys mentoring youth. She graduated valedictorian
of Randolph Clay High School in 2007. She holds
a bachelors degree in accounting from Fort Valley
State University (2011) and a MBA in accounting
(2015) at Albany State University.
Britney founded P.L.U.T.O. in 2012, which stands
for Peer Leaders Undermining Todays Obstacles.
Initially, the programs goal was to establish an education outreach for high school juniors and seniors
within the Randolph County School System. However, her vision grew to help educate youth about
educational opportunities available after high school.
Thus, the program offers ACT/SAT tutorials and
visitation to higher learning institutions.
Tutoring and mentoring are important components of P.L.U.T.O. The program provides tutoring
and mentoring services for children ages 8-17 in
the Randolph County area. Tutoring is available in
courses, such as math, reading, language arts, science, and social studies. The mentoring sessions
focus on career advisement, personal fitness, mental
health, and social health. In 2014, a P.L.U.T.O. Scholarship awarded to a deserving high school senior.
Britney is currently employed as the Chief Financial Officer with the Randolph County Board of
Education.
Above and Beyond
Above and Beyond
Name: William Roderick Lewis, II

Age: 23
Hometown: Tallahassee, Florida
Profession: Information Technology
William is an outstanding young man who has
demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and ability. He graduated from Florida State University in
2015 with a Bachelors of Science degree in Information Technology.
William has an extraordinary talent with technology. He has received many laudatory remarks and
comments from his supervisors for his outstanding
work with Apple, Inc., the College of Engineering at
Florida State University and his current involvement
with the Florida Dental Association, where he is the
Helpdesk Technician and Database Administrator.
William is the son of Lieutenant Colonel William
Lewis and Joyce Lewis. He has one sister, Tonya
Brooks. He is also the grandson of Minnie R. Lewis
of Cuthbert and the late William J. Lewis of Bainbridge, Georgia. William currently resides in Tallahassee, Florida.
Name: Joshua Minich

Age: 30
Hometown: Americus, GA
Profession: Registered Nurse
Joshua, or Josh as he is known by family and
friends, is an awesome servant leader. He graduated
from Americus High School in 2003. Later, he graduated Cum Laude both with a Bachelor of Science
degree in Psychology (2008)and in Nursing (2015)
from Georgia Southwestern State University. Josh
also holds a masters degree in community counseling (2012) from Columbus State University.
While working on his undergraduate degree he
was an active member of Chi Phi fraternity, which
was selected by the GSW faculty as the most outstanding campus organization at least once while he
was president. He was also a member of the Varsity
Soccer Team, the GSW Orientation Team, and president of the Hurricane Watch, a student produced
video organization.
Josh is also active in the community and his
church, First Presbyterian Church of Americus. In
addition to his work as a Nurse, Josh is the Director
of the Campus Ministry for the Presbyterian Student
Center at Georgia Southwestern State University that
is also know as the "Pres House." There he works
with a diverse group of undergraduate students as
they manage the pressure of college life and living on
their own for the first time. He also coaches and plays
for an adult recreational league.
Josh is currently a Registered Nurse in the Critical Care Unit at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in
Americus, where he resides with his wife and son
Conrad.
Above and Beyond
Name: Amber Murphy

Age: 28
Hometown: Reynolds, Georgia
Profession: Higher Education
Amber loves people, working hard, learning
new things, and giving back to community. She is a
graduate of Taylor County High School. She received
a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from
Mercer University. Amber completed a Master of
Education degree in Higher Education-Enrollment
Management from Capella University.
Amber is a Life Member of Alpha Phi Omega
Service Fraternity. She serves on a number of organizations, such as the Taylor County School Systems
Career, Technical, and Agriculture Education (also
known as CTAE) Advisory Committee. Within this
role, Amber promotes college readiness and job acquisition skills through resume building workshops.
In addition to supporting the K-12 sector of education, Amber also supports adult literacy through
partnering with the Taylor County Certified Literacy
Commission with the Certified Literate Community
Program (CLCP).
Ambers leadership also extends into business and
industry. She currently serves as the vice-chair of
the Taylor County Chamber of Commerce Board of
Directors. By working closely with the Chamber of
Commerce, Amber works diligently to develop partnerships with businesses to not only educate their
employees, but also to establish and to strengthen
community partnerships.
Amber played a collaborative role in workforce
and economic development through Taylor Countys
Certified Work Ready Community initiative.
Aside from her commitment to her community
through work and service organizations, Amber is

a co-founder, with her fianc, of Give Specific. Give
Specific emerged to be a source of support for efforts
that enlighten, educate, train, enhance, and maintain
the people in communities both local and abroad.
Amber is currently a doctoral candidate in a Doctor of Philosophy program specializing in Leadership
for Higher Education at Capella University. She is
currently completing her dissertation focusing on the
leadership attributes and experiences of 12 African
American male college and university presidents. As
a multi-state study, Ambers dissertation encompasses lived experiences of new and long serving college
and university presidents across three states including two and four year colleges and universities.
Tied directly to her capacity at Southern Crescent
Technical College, it is her hope to add to the body of
knowledge focusing on African American males in
higher education leadership in an effort to encourage
African American male students, whom are often
underrepresented, to complete college and pursue
higher education leadership.
Amber is currently employed at Southern Crescent
Technical College, where she serves as a member
of the institutions Strategic Planning and Retention Committee. For the past 5 years, she has been
responsible for daily operations at satellite center,
managing the budget, class scheduling and placement testing, and serving as a SCTC liaison to the
community. She has worked in various departments,
including Academic Affairs, Office of the Provost,
and most recently, Economic Development.
Congratulations
2015 Rural Leader
40 under 40 Honorees
Congratulations
2015 Rural Leader
Forty under 40 Honorees
Brad Stafford, Owner

Six Locations Near You
523 Forrester Drive Southeast
Dawson, Georgia 39842
229-995-6493
www.Badcock.com
Albany ~ Americus~Columbus
Cordele~Sylvester
Steven S. Whatley
Presidnet
400 Whitaker Ave.

P.O. Box 1336
Columbus, GA 31902
706-324-4271
Fax 706-324-4276
Congratulations
2015
Rural Leader
Forty under 40
Honorees
Chief Bobby Wiggins
Cuthbert Police Department
598 Blakely St.

P. O. Box 505
Cuthbert, GA 39840
229-732-5608
Fax 229-732-5328
event.
Ruchelle currently lives in Deerfield Beach, Florida, where she teaches seventh and eighth grade
Language Arts at Deerfield Beach Middle School.
Name: Ruchelle L. Priester

Age: 26
Ruchelle is the daughter of Michelle Gadson and
the late Luther Priester. She is a 2007 graduate of
Randolph-Clay High School, and she not only loves
her hometown but is also passionate about teaching.
She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English
from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
(2012).
She strives to be the teacher who connects with
and cares for students. During her first year as a
teacher, Ruchelle is well-versed on maximizing effective teaching strategies through Marzano.
Marzano Research, is a joint venture between
Robert J. Marzano, PhD and the Solution Tree, combines Dr. Marzanos 40 years of educational research
with continuous action research in all major areas of
schooling in order to provide effective and accessible
instructional strategies, leadership strategies, and
classroom assessment strategies that are always at the
forefront of best practice. Ruchelle showcased her
knowledge via the school-wide newspaper on three
occasions.
Ruchelle understands that hard work does not
always guarantee success. Nonetheless, she is motivated to do her best in all endeavors and to be a role
model for others. She gives back to her community
in a number of ways. She is a volunteer counselor for
Camp Georgia, a local summer youth program.
Ruchelle and her friends offer free makeover
contests for high school juniors and seniors during
the prom season to help them prepare for the special
Name: Milton Bernard Reese

Age: 29
Hometown: Dawson, GA
Profession: Author/Higher Education/Nonprofit Founder
Milton is a modern day leader who takes on the

responsibility to help learners discover new skills and
knowledge pertinent to becoming successful. He is
the son of Betty Reese and Milton Johnson, and he is
the grandson of Mamie Reese, all of Dawson.
He is 2004 Honor Graduate of Terrell Middle
High School. He holds a bachelors (2008), a masters
(2009), and specialist (2011) degrees from Albany
State University. He also holds a Reading, Gifted, and
ESOL Certificates as well. Milton also holds a Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction from
NOVA Southeastern University.
Milton is also a published author. He co-wrote a
research journal entitled the Albany State Leadership
Interdisciplinary Journal. He also serves on the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators
(GACE) Bias Committee by the Professional Standard Commission (PSC). He is a member of GAE,
PAGE, NAACP, and serves as President of the Christopher B. Hall Scholarship Foundation. He is also
an active member of the Bronwood Road Church of
Christ in Dawson.
In his spare time, Milton enjoys traveling and
riding motorcycles. He is the founder and president
of the Street Phantoms MC. The aim of the Street
Above and Beyond
Above and Beyond
Phantoms is to support the Terrell County community by sponsoring students in need, organizing charity
rides, participating in local civic activities, hosting
school supply drives, and volunteering whenever
possible
Milton is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education at Walden University. He is employed at Albany
Technical College in Albany, GA, where he serves
as chair of the Early Childhood Care and Learning
Department. He previously served as is a fifth grade
teacher at Carver, where he was named Teacher of
the Year in 2012-2013.
Name: Travis M. Rush

Age: 34
Hometown: Americus, GA
Profession: Entrepreneur/Ministry
Travis is the son of Miller and Emma Rush. He
graduated from Americus High School in the class
2000, where he received many honors and awards
for academics and athletics sports. Upon completing
high school, he entered into a professional contract
with the Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Organization,
where he tenured for 4 years within professional
baseball. During his professional career, he attended
Keiser College where he completed his undergraduate degree in Computer Science and later attended
Ashworth College to complete a second degree in
Business Management in 2005.
Travis has made an impact on many lives in
his community and throughout the United States
through his non-profit organization Progressive Vision Inc., founded in 2005. Progressive Vision Inc. is
a faith based nonprofit charity that empowers youth,
adults, and seniors through leadership training, economic development, work ready training, and health
awareness to become productive, self-sustaining citizens throughout Georgia. Mr. Rush and Progressive
Vision Inc. stand behind its motto Where a Vision
without Progress is Just a Dream.
In May 2009, Travis M. Rush accepted the call
and entered the ministry. His religious matriculation
includes a degree in Biblical Studies from Andersonville Theological Seminary in Thomasville, Georgia. Travis M. Rush serve as Pastor of Spring Creek
Baptist Church in Americus Georgia and Visionary
Leader of Gateway To Christ International Ministries
in Camilla Georgia.
In July 2014, Travis M. Rush started a for profit business R&R All-Star Printing, LLC located in
Americus, Georgia. Since opening, Travis has been
blessed to service clients all over the Southeastern Region of the United States creating numerous
jobs.
Name: Turkeisa Lynn Vaughn-Rushin

Age: 39
Profession: Ministry
Turkeisa Rushin is the pastor and Founder of Empowerment Temple, Inc., which is located in Cuthbert, GA. She is the wife of Delton Rushin to which
they share 5 children, Tyreak Johnson, Kwandarius

Rushin, Keychard Hill, Keshaun Hill, Khalar Rushin.
Turkeisa is a nurse by profession, minister by the
call of God, and an entrepreneur. She currently resides in Albany GA along with her husband and children. In her spare time she loves to read and write.
Turkeisa is also one of the collaborative authors in a
project book titled Get in the Flow, The Flow, Destiny
is Calling and is currently writing her own solo piece.
Turkeisa has a heart for people and provokes
greatness in and through those she comes across.
Her motto is no soul left behind and she ministers to
motivate, stimulate, empower, and improve the mental, physical, and psychological well-being of body of
Christ.
Turkeisa has been pastoring for 2 years in the
Cuthbert area but ministering over 15 years. She is a
licensed and ordained minister of the gospel of Jesus
Christ. She currently travels spreading the gospel and
building the kingdom of God throughout the land.
She has been a blessing to many anonymously and
helps feed the needy, homeless, and elderly during
choice times of the year.
Turkeisa is a product of the Randolph County educational system class of 1994, a 2001 honors graduate
of Andrew College Cum Laude, and completed the
LPN program at CVCC in 1996.
brothers, Brandon (Keiva) Latimore and Bryce

(Shantia) Latimore; and one nephew Bryce.
What makes Kourtney special is that she loves God,
family, and people.
Kourtney graduated from South Georgia Technical
College in 2001 with a degree in accounting. In 2009,
she graduated from Fort Valley State University with
a degree in mass communications with a concentration in television and radio broadcasting. During her
tenure at FVSU, she was lead singer in the Gospel
and Concert Choir; she also participated in the Eastern Seaboard Tour.
She has been a staff member of AmeriGospel,
Incorporated since 1997. AmeriGospel is an organization that provides workshops, concerts, and
community activities. The organization sponsors
professional clinicians from various parts of Georgia,
Florida, and other states to teach participants the
most modern techniques of gospel music and interpretative dance.
This new knowledge is utilized to strengthen
music ministries in the local churches. The aim of
AmeriGospel is to enhance the lives of local artists,
while giving them a platform to enhance their skills.
For more information, visit AmeriGospel.org.
Kourtney loves to use her God-given talent to sing
and to help others a much as possible. She sang for
Continued on page 41
Name: Kourtney Latimore Shelley

Age: 35
Hometown: Americus, Georgia
Profession: Business/Communications/Singer
Kourtney with a K is the daughter of Mr. Frank
and Dr. Robbie Latimore of Americus. She has two
Above and Beyond
Leadership in Life - Not Just a Game!

By Dwight Gelowitz
No matter how big or small an organization is

they are always on the look out for good leaders. The
leader that they are looking for can not just be anyone. They have to be an effective leader. Only a precious few so called leaders out there show effective
leadership. You need to be effective in your Internet
Business. Internet marketing and Leadership
go hand in hand.
There is a huge difference between a leader and an
effective leader. A leader is someone who is looked
upon for direction. An effective leader is someone
who has direction and can clearly articulate it for
the good of all involved. The organization no matter what it is, needs effective leadership in order to
survive.
Most leaders step out from the crowd or are chosen by the crowd to lead. In times of crisis a leader
is one who takes on the challenge and motivates and
creates the space for others to follow. The crowd follows because of their combined faith in the direction
the leader has taken.
Daegan Smith has been one of those leaders. I've
seen him step out of the crowd and say "Whose with
me"! A leader is not one who does things on his own.
He is not expected to do everything in fact a leader
may not do anything but lead. Philospher Confucius
says "a leader is the ones whose followers are com-
pelled to follow because of what he is". You see the

leader challenges the followers to be more than they
think they are and do more than they think they can.
He is able to influence the best out of people and stir
their inner drive to be better.
Organizations and groups of all kinds have different goals and objectives. It is the leader who directs
the group in a particular direction to ensure the accomplishment of those goals. He is also the one who
helps to articulate what those goals are and how the
accomplishment of those goals help the individuals
in the organization accomplish theirs.
The most powerful leaders i have been exposed to
have been able to find a way to have people believe
that the accomplishment of their individual goals
will help to accomplish the goals of the group. They
find a way to show people that to be a part of the
group is to be bigger than they could on their own.
There are many types of leadership from Autocratic
to Democratic and a few types in between.
The Autocratic Leader is one who makes all the
decisions without consultation and is the one who
sets policies and demands they be followed out by
the group or organization that they head. They are
typically followed by people who can't handle decisions on their own and look to a strong leader to tell
them what to do. Continued on page 48
Above and Beyond
Shelley, Cont'd from page 39

former President Jimmy Carter, and annually sings
with Early Clover of the Legendary group The
Coasters. She also auditioned for season one of
Black Entertainment Televisions (BET) Sunday Best
in Atlanta. Kourtney was so good that she made the
final round with celebrity judges. She ranked among
the top 35 out 1500.
Kourtney enjoys employing her gift to draw others
to Christ. She is currently, the worship leader at her
home place of worship, Bethesda Missionary Baptist
Church in Americus. She is also a youth worship
leader, youth choir director, and AWANA (Approved
Workman Are Not Ashamed) Teacher.
In 2014, Kourtney became of the founder and
chief executive officer MuttLife.org. MUTT is a
reverse evangelism acronym that means Made
Uniquely Through Trials. Muttlife.org is a ministry
designed to reach people with the Gospel of Jesus
Christ in a practical and relatable way.
Kourtney is also pursuing her music. In the spring
2015, she debut her album entitled, Discover Jesus.
She is also currently pursuing a masters degree in
Christian Ministry with a focus in Worship from Liberty University. In the future, she aspires to continue
the Good News of Jesus Christ throughout the nation
and abroad. She also desires to create programs that
will engage young people and to build programs to
provide temporary housing for the homeless, assist
in training programs, and job placement assistance
through workshops.
Kourtney currently resides in Warner Robins,
Georgia with her husband Antonio and son Franklin.
Congratulations
2015 Rural Leader
Forty under 40 Honorees
from
Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy

Publisher and Editor
What you do matters.
Name: Edmund Tramaine Solomon

Age: 34
Hometown: Lineville, Alabama
Profession: Ministry/Political Activist
Edmund Tramaine Solomon is the son of Edmund and Gwendolyn Johnson Solomon, and he is
making a positive impact in and around the rural
communities of East Alabama. Edmund is a dynamic
minister and preacher who serves as Senior Pastor of
the Springhill Baptist Church in Lineville, AL. Many
credit Edmund for leading and fostering an environment within the church as a Place of Hope in the
community. Service is a way of life for Edmund, for
he enjoys serving others and traveling extensively to
proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ.
He is very hands on and believes in collaboration.
Edmund partners with the Empower Alabama initiate voter registration drives to educate the community on political affairs, to building the community
through youth summer enrichment programs, and to
serve as a voice for the least, the lost, and the left out.
Edmund truly has a heart for helping people regardless of race, or age. He is the Founder and President of Clay County Faith in Action (CCFA). CCFA
is a group of faith and civic leaders who inform and
educate the community on local issues. The group
also organizes political forums, and voter registrations drives. Edmund was recognized by the Clay
County Alabama Democratic Conference Chapter
for his work with the Living the Dream Award in
2013.
Edmund is also the Founder of the Annual Clay
County Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration that is
also sponsored by the Clay County Faith in Action.
Above and Beyond

He also serves as a Spiritual Advisor to many government officials in the East Alabama area. He is also
the Vice Moderator of the Friendship Western Union
District Baptist Association.
Edmund holds a bachelors degree and a masters
degree both from Theology Andersonville Theological Seminary School. He is currently pursuing a
Masters of Divinity from Luther Rice University and
Seminary.
State University, Santreasa volunteered with various

programs such as America Read, Relay for Life, Fall
Festivals, and Criterion-Referenced Competency Test
(CRCT) workshops at Valdosta City Schools. She
also received several academic nods while at VSU;
she was nominated for A Greek Honor Society, 2010
Deans List for Fall Semester GPA 3.7, 2011 Deans
List for Spring Semester GPA 3.7, and Hope Scholarship Recipient from 2011-2013.
She has contributed much to her community by
volunteering and demonstrating exemplary leadership ability. Santreasa is a lead mentor and tutor for a
nonprofit organization called PLUTO, which stands
for Peer Leaders Undermining Todays Obstacle. In
this capacity, she serves as a positive and caring role
model in addition to creating the lesson plans for
PLUTOs Summer Session Success Program. She also
aids the organization at various community outreach
events such as the Back to School Supply Drive and
Christmas Toy Drive. In the past, she organized the
monthly CRCT boot camps and the annual March
Madness programs.
She also volunteers with Camp Georgia, a summer
camp based in Cuthbert that was created in memory
Name: Santreasa Chanel Starling
of former educator the late Mrs. Georgia Clark to
Age: 24
empower and to educate the youth. During the sumHometown: Cuthbert, GA
mer of 2014, Santreasa taught math for three weeks
for several hours each day.
Santreasa is currently a 4th grade teacher at Ran Santreasa is the daughter of Reverend Henry and
Mrs. Sharla Hogan III and the late Dexter Moore. She dolph County Elementary School. She teaches reading, science, social studies, language arts, and math
was a 2009 graduate of Randolph-Clay High School.
intervention. In addition, she is also presently pursIn high school, she was crowned Miss Randolph
ing a masters degree in early childhood education
Clay for the academic school year of 2008-2009. She
from Albany State University.
maintained good grades and represented RCHS at
various program. She graduated in 2009 with honors
and received several scholarships for college. Santreasa received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early
Childhood Education from Valdosta State University
in 2014.
At a young age, Santreasa was very giving and
wanted to make a difference, from helping at local
churches and volunteering for different organizations in the community. She values education and
loves to empower youth. While in college at Valdosta
Name: Jameeca Tarrant

Age: 33
Profession: Healthcare/Registered Nurse
Jameeca is a 2000 graduate from Randolph Clay
High School. After high school, she continued her
education at Tuskegee University and received a
Bachelors of Science degree in Nursing in 2004. Her
life call is to serve others and nursing helps her to do
so in a number of ways.
Throughout her career, Jameeca worked as a
Registered Nurse in Open Heart Intensive Care Unit
(ICU), Open Heart Stepdown, and travel nursing assignments in Los Angeles, CA in the Heart and Lung
Transplant ICU.
Jameeca is also involved in her community. She is
a faithful member of Bethel Baptist Church in Pratt
City, AL, where she serves as vice president of the
usher board. She also works with numerous nonprofit organizations that aim to keep youth off the streets
by providing safe and structured activities.
Jameeca is also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. The Order of the Eastern Star is a Freemasonic appendant body open to both men and women. It was established in 1850 by lawyer and educator
Rob Morris, a noted Freemason. The order is based
on teachings from the Bible, but is open to people of
all religious beliefs.
Jameeca is currently a charge nurse and new hire
preceptor at St. Vincents Hospital in Birmingham
where she resides with her husband, James Tarrent
III.
Name: Sommier Betina Thomas

Age: 35
Sommier is a 1998 graduate of Randolph Clay
High School. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree
in Political Science (2002) with a concentration in
pre-law from Spellman College in Atlanta. She also
as a Master of Science degree in Applied American
Politics and Policy (2006) and a Gifted Endorsement
from Columbus State University in 2012.
Throughout her higher education career, Sommier
made the Honor roll and Deans List for several semesters; she also made the Deans List for five semesters in graduate school. While at Spelman College
she was a member of the National Honor Society of
Political Science (Pi Sigma Alpha) and a Governors
Scholar.
She is very involved in her school and community.
She served as a Literacy Design Collaborative (LDC)
Liaison who helped new teachers develop units and
modules to teach for the academic year. Sommier is
also a member of the Leadership Team for Randolph
Clay Middle/High School; she is also 6th grade secretary and Social studies department chair.
She was named Teacher of the Year 2013-2014 for
Randolph Clay Middle School because of her hard
work and dedication.
Sommier is also a proud member of the Theta
Sigma Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.,
where she served as Grammateus (secretary) from
2008-2010. She is a member of the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE).
Above and Beyond
Above and Beyond
In her spare time, Sommier enjoys bowling. Her current league bowler average is 178. In March 2015, she
placed 4th in the Singles division at the Georgia State
Womens Bowling Tournament.
Sommier is currently a sixth grade teacher at Randolph Clay Middle/High School.
Name: Laurice Walker

Age: 37
Hometown: Dawson, GA
Profession: Educator/Entrepreneur
Laurice was born in Hartford, Connecticut to
Clement Allen and Dorothy Allen-Redhead and lived
there for the first twelve years of her life. She has two
sisters, Kimberly and Alexia. In 1990, she moved to
her familys hometown of Dawson, Georgia. She is a
1996 honor graduate of Terrell High School.
Laurice holds a bachelors degree in early childhood education Bachelors degree from Georgia
Southwestern University (2002) in Americus, Georgia. She also holds a masters degree in management
and administration of education programs (2004)
and an education specialist degree in Curriculum/Instruction Management and Assessment (2005) both
at Nova Southeastern University. She has received an
English Speakers of Other Languages Endorsement
(ESOL) from Northwest Georgia RESA in (2008).
Laurice also attended Albany State University where
she earned a certification in Educational Leadership
in (2009).
Laurice has worked in education for the last thirteen years. She began her teaching career at Randolph County Elementary School in Cuthbert, GA
and taught for one year (2002-2003). She returned
to Terrell County to give back to the children of her

community in 2003 and accepted a position at Lillie
Cooper Primary School. Laurice currently works as
a second grade teacher in Terrell County at Cooper
Carver Elementary School. She has chaired and cochaired various committees at her school, been a part
of the schools leadership team, and school improvement team. She has taught and worked in the After
School Tutorial Program and the Summer School
Enrichment Program.
Laurice was selected as Teacher of the Year 20152016 at Cooper Elementary School. She has worked
with the Georgia Department of Human Services as
an Education Support Specialist where she tutored
numerous students in grades kindergarten through
fifth grade (2010-2013). She has also worked with
Advantage Counseling Services which was a Family Outreach Program that served local families of
Terrell County (2010-2012). Laurice is very dedicated to her profession because she loves working with
children in hopes of planting the seeds of learning,
nurturing those young minds for the future. Her ultimate goal is to instill in her students the importance
of receiving an education and to become lifelong
learners.
In November 2014, Laurice and her husband
Johnny decided to venture out and become business
owners. They are now the proud owners and managers of Walker Trucking Company, LLC. A small
logistics business that moves freight throughout the
South East region of the United States.
Outside of the workplace, Laurice has many interests- she has served as a volunteer, mentor, and a Girl
Scout Leader. Laurice is a proud member of Delta
Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated; she is a member
of the Albany (GA) Alumnae Chapter. She is also a
member of The Professional Association for Georgia
Educators and The National Educators Association.
Although, she finds much joy in her career, her
greatest and most satisfying moments are times spent
with her husband, Johnny Bernard Walker, Jr. and
their two-year old daughter, Lauryn Alyssa Walker.
Laurice currently resides in Dawson, GA.
Name: Tamika Washington

Age: 38
Profession: Registered Nurse
Tamika is 1995 graduate of Randolph Clay High
School. She obtained certification as a nursing associate and began work at Crown Healthcare in 1998
as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CAN). Her worked
at Crowne Healthcare helped her to realize the joy
of working with people, especially the elderly. With
the desire to further her career in healthcare, Tamika
enrolled in Wallace Community College. In 2000, she
graduated from the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
program.
In 2008, she went back to school at Wallace Community College to pursue an Associate degree in
nursing while working full-time and raising a five
children. She graduated in August 2011 with an associate degree in nursing. Tamika successful passed the
nursing licensure exam October 7th of the same year.
In her spare time, Tamika enjoys giving back to
community and spending time with her children.
In 2011, she was honored with the Mother of Year
Award by the J. B. Smith Youth Group. The J. B.
Smith Youth Group was founded by James E. Mock,
Sr. and named after a prominent educator, James B.
Smith with an aim to mentor youth ages 3-19 with
positive and safe activities.
Name: Shannon Wiggins

Age: 24
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Profession: Multimedia Journalist
Shannon is daughter of Keith Wiggins and Patricia
Wiggins; she has one brother, Kendal. She lived in Lithonia, Georgia for 7 years before her family moved
to Conyers, Georgia.
While in Conyers, she was very involved in extracurricular activities throughout her elementary,
middle, and high school career, such as dance, gymnastics, music, track, acting, reporting, and video
production.
Her involvement in school news reporting while
at Salem High influenced her decision to attend the
University of Georgia at Athens to purse a degree in
the news industry. She graduated in May 2013 magna
cum laude with a double major in Digital Broadcast
Journalism and Political Science.
Shannons areas of interest include listening to
music, public speaking, working with young people,
shopping, watching professional football, spending
time with her friends, and getting involved in community service initiatives.
She currently is a Multimedia Journalist, Night
Reporter, and Beat Reporter for WALB Channel 10
the NBC affiliate based in both Thomasville and
Albany.
Above and Beyond

Above and Beyond
Name: Dayna Wilburn

Age: 35
Profession: Counselor/Public Administration
Dayna is a 1998 graduate of Randolph-Clay High
School. She also holds a bachelors degree in psychology (2005) and a masters degree in public administration (2009) both from Albany State University.
Dayna is the essence of service-above self. She is
also humble, trustworthy, determined, and dependable. Coupled with her strong faith in God, Dayna
employs these remarkable attributes to serve and to
encourage others to live their best life.
Dayna is a member of the distinguished Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The one hundred and three
year old organization focus aims include sisterhood,
scholarship, and service.
She continually serves others as the in her career
field. Dayna is currently a Behavior Health and Developmental Disabilities Social Services Case Manager with Aspire and Department of Family an dChildren Services Liason with the Millennium Center,
where she was instrumental in developing the first
Aftercare union, both in Cuthbert.
She is the proud mother of one son, Dayln, 8, and
they both also currently reside in Cuthbert.
Name: Janet G. Williams

Age: 36
Profession: Business Administration
Janet is the daughter of William and Mary Gilbert and is a 1996 graduate of Randolph-Clay High
School. She graduated from South Georgia Technical
College with a business diploma.
She is a member of Mount Cilla Non Denomination Church, where Rev. Dr. Prophetess Christine
Kennedy is pastor. Janet is an active member who
has served as Sunday School secretary, and assistant
choir director.
She is currently employed with the Cuthbert
Division of Child Support and Social Services in the
Pataula Judicial Circuit. Her role involves enhances
the well-being of children by locating noncustodial
parents, establishing paternity, enforcing support orders, modifying orders when appropriate, collecting
and distributing child support payments, and referring parents to other social service programs. The
program aims are to promote parent accountability,
self-sufficiency and to reduce the publics responsibility for providing financial and medical support to
children.
In the future, Janet plans to pursue additional
education in the field of health and nutrition.
Name: Natalie Williams

Age: 35
Hometown: Fort Gaines, Georgia
Profession: Family Nurse Practitioner/
Entrepreneur
Natalie has been a registered nurse for ten years,
and a Family Nurse Practitioner for eight. She has
been a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
for fifteen years. She is a faithful member of Bethesda Baptist Church in Americus. She is a member of
American Nurse Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a
Family Nurse Practitioner.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2004)
and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (2004)
both from Georgia Southwestern State University in
Americus. She holds a Masters of Science degree in
Nursing with a focus in Family Nurse Practitioner
(2007) from Troy University. She is currently pursing
a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and Post Masters
Certificate to become a Psychiatric Mental Health
Nurse Practitioner at Brandman University.
She is currently employed at St. Francis Hospital
at the Bradley Center Depression. Natalie is also
employed with United Healthcare and Care Improvement Plus as Family Nurse Practicioner. She is also
employed with Macon State Prison as a Family Nurse
Practitioner.
Natalie is also a prolific entrepreneur. She is the
CEO of three business ventures: N.A.T.S. Nursing
Adult TotalCare Services, LLC, N.A.T.S. Nutrition
And TotalBody Solutions, LLC, and N.A.T.S. Noble
And Trustworthy eStates, LLC.
Natalie currently resides in Americus with her son
Nicholas.
Name: Christopher Wright

Age: 25
Hometown: Dawson, Georgia
Profession: Local Government
Christopher is the son of Sean Wright and Tonya
Wright. He is also the father of one daughter, Erin
T. Wright, and uncle to Christian Johnson. He is a
2008 graduate of Terrell County High School; he also
graduated in 2012 from Albany Technical College
with a diploma in Business Administrative Technology.
While at ATC, Christopher served two consecutive terms as chapter president of Future Business
Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda (FBLA-PBL).
He was placed first in a state Public Speaking Competition and placed second in the National Public
Speaking completion in San Antonio, TX. Christopher is the also first ATC student to place in the top
five in a national competition. He was also one of the
2012 nominees for the Georgia State Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) Award.
Christopher is also very involved in politics. He
is the former chairman of the Terrell County Democratic Party and the current chairman of the 4th
Quadrant of the Georgia Democratic Party of 2nd
Congressional District Georgia, and the Mayor of
Dawson.
He is also the office manager and apprentice
Funeral Director at Johnson & Son Funeral Service
in Dawson, GA. He is also the co-founder of The
Christian Brothers Acapella Quarter Gospel Singing
Group and a member of the local chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored
People (NAACP). Continued on page 56
Above and Beyond
Leadership in Life, cont'd from page 40

The Democratic leader is one that promotes participation by the group in developing direction and
policy for the group. This type of leader typically has
more independant followers and people who will feel
more confident of their ideas.The great democratic
leader is one who leads and the followers believe not
that they are following but that they are leading.
In my humble opinion i believe that the best leader
is not the one who has the most followers but the
best leader is the one who develops the most leaders.
The leader who doesn't say follow me but steps up
and says I'll go first! You see leadership is not just
making decisions and telling people what to do.
Leadership is an all encompasing philosophy of
life where one decides who they are and says "I'll do
that" or "I'll be that" or "I'm going this way - who is
with me!". Where in your life have you shown leadership? Where in your life do you want to develop
leadership? You see people will follow if you choose
to lead. Where will you go? From My Treasure Chest
to Yours!
About The Author
Dwight is an internet entrepreneur who makes
his way in the world helping others find what works
for them. NetPowerProspecting.com - NETPower
Prospecting is their current project to bring the art of
Internet Marketing to those who need it!
Congratulations 2015
Rural Leader Forty under 40 Honorees
Shellman Drug Company

"Family owned and operated retail pharmacy and gift shop"
75 West Railroad Street

Shellman, Georgia 39886
229-679-5070
4 Top Technology Degrees for Todays Career Seekers

The career outlook for technology professionals remains highly
promising. With so many emerging employment opportunities,
The White House announced the
TechHire initiative in March to
encourage American cities to offer
training to prepare the workforce
for careers in growing tech fields.
The United States has about five
million open jobs today, which is
more than at any point since 2001.
Over half a million of those job
openings are in information technology fields like software development, network administration
and cybersecurity, many of which
did not exist just a decade ago.
As an added incentive for
Americans to pursue tech careers,
the average salary in a job that
requires information technology
(IT) skills - whether in manufac-
turing, advertising, retail or banking - is 50 percent higher than the

average private-sector American
job.
Our information technology
students today are enthusiastic
about the future job, says Dr.
Rajin Koonjbearry, professor and
cyber security expert at DeVry
University. Not only are traditional IT careers standing out, but
increasing private information online calls for cyber security experts
to help companies protect against
threats.
Here are some of the most
valuable tech specializations and
degree programs available to career seekers today:
1. Cyber Security
Cyber security has been listed by
The World Economic Forum as
one of the top five global risks in
terms of likelihood, and has been

ranked as a top concern in federal
chief information officer surveys.
The White House even released an
executive order aimed at improving critical infrastructure cybersecurity.
Demand for cyber security
professionals continues to rise,
with the Bureau of Labor Statistics
predicting a 37 percent increase in
information security analyst jobs
through 2022.
To meet this demand, colleges
and universities are starting to
offer degrees in cyber security. In
May, DeVry University unveiled a
new Cyber Security Programming
specialization within its Bachelor
of Science in Computer Information Systems program, available
on campus or online in select
states.
The program includes Systems Security Certified

Practitioner (SSCP) preparation and exam facilitation, a key credential employers may require in
hiring cyber security professionals that has been
accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
2. Health Information Systems
Another fast-growing tech specialization is in
health information systems. The North American
healthcare technology market is predicted to grow
significantly to more than $31 billion by 2017, up
from approximately $22 billion in 2012, according to
Research and Markets North American Healthcare
IT Market Report.
Demand for health informatics specialists is partly
driven by the growing complexity of healthcare
operations, government initiatives to promote IT in
hospitals and the shift toward paperless billing and
payment environments.
Students who earn a bachelors degree in computer information systems can pursue professional
certification as a Certified Associate in Healthcare
Information and Management (CAHIMS) to show
employers their knowledge and skills.
3. Systems Analysis and Integration
Computer systems analysts play a vital role in
researching, planning and recommending software
and systems that best meet an organizations business
requirements. These analysts combine their knowledge of information technology and business to manage the organizations overall computer system - from
designing and developing new systems to helping

networks run more efficiently and effectively.
According to a new market report, the global
market for system integration is expected to grow at
a compound annual growth rate of nearly 11 percent
from 2014 to 2020. Following graduation, students
who want to stand out from the competition can pursue a post-baccalaureate certificate in Information
Systems and Management.
4. Web Development and Administration
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 20
percent employment growth for Web developers by
2022. During that period, about 28,500 new jobs
will need to be filled in an industry that already has
roughly 141,400 positions.
The expansion of e-commerce is expected to fuel
this high job growth in the coming decade. Companies need web developers who can design webpage
layout and solve code problems, help expand their
online retail presence and safeguard the site and end
users privacy.
Given the high job growth rates expected in these
four areas, bachelors degree candidates are increasingly looking for programs that meet their future
career aspirations. A specialized degree, especially
when paired with a professional certification valued
by employers, can open doors to a rewarding career.BPT
Create your own Personal Pension? Its possible

For example, lets say you purchased a DIA with a
Retirement planning has certainly changed a lot
$50,000 lump sum. That money will then be held
over the years, hasnt it? First came pensions, or
by your financial institution for a defined period,
defined benefit plans, with their guaranteed income
for life. After that it was 401(k)s. These plans focused according to the contract, where it will grow with
on growing wealth from the stock and bond markets. interest. After a specified amount of time has passed,
you can start receiving payments. This guaranteed
Your pension and 401(k) were meant to work tostream of income can then be used to supplement
gether but now pensions are disappearing and many
additional retirement savings and help you fill a void
people are left with just their 401(k) plan.
in your retirement portfolio.
Your 401(k) is an important piece of your retire A DIA is one example of the many options that are
ment savings but it was never intended to be your
available when it comes to retirement strategies and
sole retirement solution. Instead, your 401(k) was
thats good news for any investor seeking retirement
meant to provide additional retirement savings that
worked with your pension, savings and other income income. With traditional pensions disappearing from
the landscape, there are still plenty of options that let
sources to paint a full retirement picture. But now
you design personal solutions for your own retirefor many people the pensions are gone and while
you have other savings avenues - what can you do to ment. The key is knowing your options and working
with a financial professional who can help guide you
replace this lost retirement income?
toward a stable retirement, that way youll be ready
One option could be a deferred income annuity (DIA). A DIA allows you to set up a guaranteed
for any changes that happen in your retirement planning until its finally time for you to enjoy the fruits
income stream beginning later in your life. With a
DIA its important to remember that the guaranteed
of all that hard work and smart saving.
About Thrivent Financial
income is based on the strength and claims paying
Thrivent Financial is a financial services orgaability of your financial institution so its important
nization that helps Christians be wise with money
to choose the right partner. DIAs are traditionaland live generously. As a membership organization,
ly funded with a lump sum payment up front and
the contract promises to pay you a lifetime income
it offers its nearly 2.4 million member-owners a
broad range of products, services and guidance from
stream starting with a date of your choice.
financial representatives nationwide. For more than

a century it has helped members make wise money
choices that reflect their values while providing them
opportunities to demonstrate their generosity where
they live, work and worship. For more information,
visit Thrivent.com/why. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter.
Insurance products issued or offered by Thrivent
Financial, the marketing name for Thrivent Financial
for Lutherans, Appleton, WI. Not all products are
available in all states.
Securities and investment advisory services are offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc.,
625 Fourth Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415, a FIN-
RA and SIPC member and a wholly owned subsidiary of Thrivent. Thrivent Financial representatives
are registered representatives of Thrivent Investment
Management Inc. They are also licensed insurance
agents/producers of Thrivent. For additional important information, visit Thrivent.com/disclosures. If
requested, a Thrivent Financial representative may
contact you and financial solutions, including insurance, may be solicited.
Guarantees are backed by the financial strength
and claims paying ability of Thrivent Financial for
Lutherans.
Congratulations
2015 Rural Leader 40 under 40 Honorees
The DAWG HOUSE

Hotdogs-Hamburgers and More
On The Square
Cuthbert, Georgia
229-732-5688
Leadership in Life, cont'd from page 30

mind to all of the factors involved, some of which I
initially might not be aware of. By keeping an open
mind, I was also able to be effective in another key
leadership role staying ahead of other potential
problems. By looking at the options, I could
see which might cause other issues down the road.
This at least gave me a chance to develop a plan to
deal with these if I took that particular path.
Challenge the team my very first business mentor
had the unique ability through
eflective questions, to challenge me to find the
answers on my own. When I was stumped, he challenged me to identify the resources that would help
me keep moving forward. To this day, I believe that
his leadership approach to me to challenge me
to be better laid the foundation for many of the
successes I experienced in my career. He wasalways
there to help me or guide me but, most importantly,

he helped me learn the real measure of my full capabilities.
A quote that I recently came across says it best
Leadership involves inspiring others to be greater
than they believe they can be; to help them see how
they can exceed their own self-expectations.
So, what should you do now? Simpleconduct your
own self examination to evaluate how well you are
leading your team. Ask yourself how well you stack
up against these 5 points. Need help, just call or
e-mail me.
About The Author
Chris Ruisi is an experienced executive/business
coach as well as accomplished leadership/business
motivational speaker. To learn more about Chris visit
TheCoachszone.com or email Chris at
Chris@TheCoachsZone.com.
Tips to Turn Kids into Money Masters at Any Age

Most kids start learning about
money earlier than a lot of people
think-and its usually from watching their parents.
Three out of five young adults
say their parents advice or example had the greatest influence over
how they handle their finances
today, according to findings from
a Bank of America/USA TODAY
survey. That parental involvement
had a big effect on the practice of
good financial habits. Of those
who say their parents did an
excellent or good job teaching
them about money, 74 percent
have savings and nearly half make
a regular budget.
Talking to your kids about
money and using everyday moments to teach practical lessons is
not only important, it works, says
Andrew Plepler, global corporate
social responsibility executive at
Bank of America. Its OK to be
repetitive - kids may not always
remember everything we say - but
this survey shows that they do lis-
ten and learn from our example.

Parents who would like guidance on how to teach kids valuable
financial lessons can find help
online. The website BetterMoneyHabits.com - a financial education
resource by Bank of America and
education innovator Khan Academy - offers easy-to-follow videos
and tips to help parents teach
important financial lessons to children of various stages and ages.
Elementary lessons
A child in elementary school is
just learning how money works,
so simple lessons are best. For
example, a trip to the store for
back-to-school shopping can be
an opportunity to learn about
how to comparison shop and save
money. Ask your child to examine
the prices of different folder and
notebook styles and find the lowest priced items.
An allowance is another tool
for teaching the building blocks
of money management. Experts
typically recommend parents
who follow this approach to give

young children 50 cents to $1 per
week for every year of their age.
Some parents start with a smaller amount and only raise it once
they feel their child can handle the
responsibility.
Moving up to middle school
At this age your child may be
ready for more complex money-management skills, including
saving for larger, medium-term
goals such as coveted clothing
or electronics. Work with them
to build a savings plan around a
goal and track progress. For bigger-ticket items, consider matching contributions to reward your
childs savings efforts. If she wants
a new phone that costs $200, for
example, you could ask her to save
for half, and agree to cover the
remaining $100.
This age is also a good time to
talk about digital spending. All
those in-app purchases, music
and game downloads can add up.
Instead of allowing your child to
download at will, consider setting up online accounts

to require a password for purchases and set a monthly spending limit. When he asks you to make a digital
purchase, discuss the cost and how what hes asking
for will fit into the budget.
High school lessons
By high school, your teenager will be much more
independent and will have had a lot more experience
with money. If he is managing a larger allowance or
even an income from a part-time job, it may be time
to open a checking account. Checking accounts come
with a lot of responsibility, but walking him through
the process of setting one up and establishing best
practices for banking and managing money responsibly will set the foundation for sound money habits
far into the future.
As your teen gets older, she may start to have
bigger ideas about things she wants to do or purchase
- such as planning a spring break trip or graduation
party or buying a car. Take the opportunity to talk
about how much it could cost, work with her to map
out a budget for all related expenses, and identify
ways for her to help contribute, say for a plane ticket
Congratulations
2015 Rural Leader
40 under 40 Honorees
or the party invitations.

At some point, most teens are offered opportunities to take on debt, perhaps through loans or credit
cards. You can help prevent impulsive decisions
(and costly outcomes), by teaching teens some key
guidelines about borrowing money. For example,
most teens might not understand that there is a cost
to taking out a loan or charging purchases to a credit
card if you stretch the payments out over a long time.
There is of course a benefit to borrowing money responsibly as a way to build credit so show your teen
your credit report and discuss your own experiences
to show how good and bad decisions affect credit and
purchasing power.
Whether your child is just starting to learn the value of money or is old enough to have a bank account,
the money skills you set while they are young could
help them develop financial skills for a lifetime. For
more ideas on teaching kids about money - as well
as resources on everyday money matters for adults visit www.bettermoneyhabits.com.BPT
Congratulations
2015 Rural Leader
Forty under Forty Honorees
Silver's Lounge
Corner of 4th and Andrew Street
Cuthbert, Georgia
Open Monday-Saturday
6PM-2PM
Bingo every Wednesday
Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church

184 Piney Grove Church Road
Cuthbert, Georgia
229-732-6006
7PM-8:30PM
Happy Hour each Saturday 7PM-10PM
Rev. David Hamm, Jr., Pastor

Deacon Wilburn Shingles, Chairman
Deacon Michael Starling, Treasuer
Services each 3rd Sunday at 11:30 AM
Sunday School at 10:30 AM
Labor Day BBQ
September 7th at 2 PM
For more INFO, call 229-310-7174
Whats the Makers Movement about?

Reinventing the world one child at a time
Can kids playing with Legos

make the world a better place?
Will children who build their
own rocket ships or dollhouses go
on to be the adult innovators of
tomorrow, who take on the worlds
challenges with technology and
creativity? If 13-year-old Shubham
Banerjee is an example of young
makers, the answer to those questions may be a resounding Yes!
After reading that most Braille
printers cost more than $2,000,
Shubham decided this price was
crazy and set out to create a
cheaper alternative. Using a Lego
kit and parts from a local hardware store, he built a prototype
Braille printer of his own. The
price? About $350. With financial and technology backing from
Intel, Shubham founded his own
company and is now working
on a more advanced, low-cost
Braille printer based on the
postage-stamp size Intel Edison
computing platform.
Shubhams story is amazing and
inspiring - and less of an exception or a messy science experiment.

than you might think. His story is This shift to making represents the
one of the many successes emerg- perfect storm of new technological
materials, expanded opportuniing from the Maker Movement.
ties, learning through hands-on
Makers come from all socio-ecoexperience and the basic human
nomic backgrounds and are all
impulse to create.
ages. They use technology and
Affordable technology and the
creativity to reinvent the world
ability to share online has fuaround them, whether its adding
eled the Maker Movement. New
motion-sensitive LED lights to
Barbies outfit, creating a tweetable tools like 3D printers, robotics,
coffee pot or using sensors to cre- affordable microprocessors like
ate an app-enabled watering systhe Intel Galileo or Intel Edison
development boards and new
tem for their houseplants. Many,
like Shubham, are employing their programming languages are
skills as makers to create their own enabling hands-on learning and
encouraging children of all ages
career opportunities.
The lesson for all of us is that
to use these tools to move from
passive receivers of knowledge to
making and exploring through
play is not just about celebrating
real-world makers. For the first
time, students can take their powthe gifted but about triggering
and encouraging the talent living
erful ideas to create real things,
not just make-believe models.
inside every child, says Jay MelKids can solve real problems with
ican, Intels maker czar. Study
their own inventions and easily
after study supports that the best
explore science, technology, engiway to activate a curious mind is
to make something. That might be neering and math (STEM) career
opportunities.
an amazing high-tech invention
The Maker Movement holds the promise to specifically inspire girls to pursue STEM studies and even
careers. An Intel study, called MakeHers, found that
the social-service aspects motivate female makers
and that girl makers develop more interest and skills
in computer science and engineering.
Parents and teachers of school-age children may
already unwittingly participate in the Maker Movement when children use tablets in the classroom,
play coding games or build a soapbox car at home.
Attending a Maker Faire is a great way to learn more
about the world of Making and inspire kids of all
ages.
Heralded as the greatest show-and-tells on earth,
Forty under 40, Wright con'td from page 47
Christopher is also a member, steward, and minister-in-training at the Bronwood Road Church of
Christ in Dawson, GA. and a member of the local
Chapter of the NAACP.
Last but not least, Christopher is the Honorable
Mayor of the City of Dawson serving his second
term. Mayor Wright is a community organizer,
philanthropist, and humanitarian. He spends making
a difference by working with non-profit organizations to improve the community.
the Maker Faire in San Mateo, California annually

attracts more than 145,000 children and adults over
just one weekend. Hundreds of Maker Faires are held
around the world throughout the year. They gather to
make things, show off, challenge one another, laugh,
play, invent, tinker, solve problems and inspire.
Excitement, rather than expertise, is the coin of the
realm in this magical environment full of fire-breathing sculptures, cupcake cars, bicycle-powered rock
bands, soda and Mentos-propelled fountains and
workshops in programming, soldering, welding,
lock-picking, knitting, crocheting and robot making.
To learn more and to find a Maker Faire near you,
visit makerfaire.com.BPT
Art with a PurposePreserving African American History through Art
KuanitaMurphy.com
Congratulations 2015 Forty under 40 Honorees

Sheriff Eddie Fairbank &
Randolph County Sheriff 's Department
216 Recreation Camp Rd.
Cuthbert, Ga. 39840
229.732.2525
www.randolphgasheriff.org
Wayne's Restaurant
and Grill
Buffet Lunch-BBQ-Burgers-SandwichesSteaks-Seafood
What you do matters.
We do Catering
Wayne Etheridge
Owner
229-881-0850
735 Forrester Drive
Dawson, GA 39842
229-695-9513
52 East Dawson Street

Cuthbert, GA 39840
"As a lover of history, I find myself getting caught up

with the exploits and courage of those who came before
me. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcom, and Frederick
Douglas all earned their places in history.
But recently, I have realized that I can do more than
read about history. I can be a part of it. I can write it
and even play the trailblazer, if I wanted. I came to this
thought as I worked with my friend and collegue, Dr.
Kuanita Murphy.
I realized that I was a witness to history as she took the
first bold steps to create her own magazine and make it a
success despite the challenges placed in her way.
Rural Leader Magazine seeks to shine a spotlight on
those who are working in front and behind the scenes of
rural communities to create economic stability, self-sufficient families, and more. This powerful work is the glue
that holds many of our small towns and communities
together in times of economic stress and uncertainity. It
is the efforts of those of us in this room and beyond that
makes us a success in every way while making sure that
our future is secure and the legacy we leave behind is never taken for granted.
I am conscious of the fact that history is not just a
story of past events, but a living, breathing "moment of
now" that will someday be appreciated by those who walk
through the doors we opened.
The fact that we stand here today celebrating not only
her achievement, but those of our award winners and
their families, is a testament to what a focused minded
can accomplish..." Sara Lee Crumbs, Contributing Writier, September 4, 2015, Forty under 40 Luncheon Honors,
Americus, GA

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40

Five Reasons Why Creativity Matters to Leaders 21st Century Leadership:

26 21st Century Leadership: Are you digging

Help us find the next Best Small Town

Rural Leader Magazine, LLC

2 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Photo Courtesy of TieFotos

Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD

Dear Rural Leader Magazine,

Dear Rural Leader Magazine,

RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 33

Primary Care Internal Medicine

RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 5

Two Thousand Fifteen Honors

Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD

6 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 7

To: Dr. Kuanita E. Murphy

8 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 9

10 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Charlie is a wine maker at Still Pond Vineyard

As a result of Charlies leadership, Still Pond

Risings Stars in Rural America

Above and Beyond

12 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Scott currently is executive

graduate of Georgia Southwestern

Risings Stars in Rural America

Above and Beyond

RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 13

14 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

ment is foremost to allow students to grow and to explore new

Throughout her tenure, Sasha

Risings Stars in Rural America

Above and Beyond

RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 15

16 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

Risings Stars in Rural America

Above and Beyond

Perkins Funeral Home

Thomas J. Bailey, Jr.,

153 Villa Nova Street

18 RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 19

valuing and using creativity more often.

Hometown: Plain, Georgia

Charlie Bradley, III, 39

Hometown: Waynesboro, Georgia

Risings Stars in Rural America

Above and Beyond

RuralLeaderMagazine.com | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 21

Risings Stars in Rural America

Above and Beyond

Hometown: Macon, Georgia

Risings Stars in Rural America

Above and Beyond

receive the CPA license after completing two years of

Hometown: Benevolence, Georgia

Hometown: Irvington, Georgia

Risings Stars in Rural America

Above and Beyond

his energy as an athlete was directed to the sport

Hometown: Cuthbert, Georgia