Leadership Southeast Georgia (LSEGA) celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2026 following the program's fifth and final session, held June 3–5 in Chatham County.

Focused on Quality of Life and program culmination, the final session brought participants together to explore the people, institutions, and community assets that contribute to a vibrant and thriving Southeast Georgia. The three-day experience concluded a five-month leadership journey that examined the opportunities and challenges shaping the region.

Participants were welcomed to Savannah State University, Georgia's oldest public historically Black college and university, where they learned about the institution's history, mission, and impact on higher education in the region. Class members also presented capstone projects, reflecting on lessons learned throughout the program and opportunities for continued regional collaboration beyond graduation.

The class explored the role of arts, culture, and history in community development through a visit to the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum, where participants gained a deeper understanding of Savannah's Civil Rights Movement and its lasting influence on quality of life throughout the region. Participants also heard from Mercedes Arnold Wright, a civil rights champion and community leader whose influence extends far beyond Southeast Georgia. Her reflections on leadership, service, and advocacy provided powerful inspiration for the class.

Additional experiences highlighted the connection between community well-being and regional success. Participants heard from Healthy Savannah about innovative approaches to making healthy choices more accessible throughout the community. During an immersive tour, the Community Housing Services Agency discussed factors that influence housing accessibility, community health, and quality of life. The class also visited Enmarket Arena and the Georgia Air National Guard's 165th Airlift Wing, gaining insight into the unique economic, recreational, military, and civic assets that contribute to the region's resilience.

Throughout the session, participants connected with alumni, community leaders, and regional stakeholders during networking events and discussions designed to strengthen relationships across county lines and sectors.

Lead Program Manager Luella Sanders shared her perspective on the Class of 2026 experience, saying, "One of the most rewarding aspects of this program is watching participants build relationships across communities and sectors while gaining a deeper appreciation for the opportunities and challenges facing our region. The Class of 2026 embraced every experience with curiosity, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to learning from one another."

The program culminated with a graduation celebration in Savannah, where participants were recognized for successfully completing the Leadership Southeast Georgia experience and welcomed into the organization's growing alumni network.

Reflecting on the program, LSEGA Immediate Past Chair Stephanie Dammen-Morrell said, "Leadership Southeast Georgia is ultimately about helping leaders develop a deeper understanding of our region and the relationships necessary to move it forward. Over the past five months, the Class of 2026 has explored the opportunities and challenges shaping Southeast Georgia, built meaningful connections across county lines, and gained a broader perspective on the issues that impact our communities. We are proud to welcome them into the LSEGA alumni network and confident they will help shape a stronger, more connected Southeast Georgia for years to come."

Throughout the program year, participants explored topics including community and economic development, military partnerships, workforce development, innovation, education, quality of life, and regional leadership. By engaging directly with business, government, education, nonprofit, and community leaders, class members developed a deeper understanding of the interconnected opportunities and challenges facing Southeast Georgia.

The Class of 2026 represents leaders from business, government, education, nonprofit organizations, economic development, public service, and community organizations across Southeast Georgia.

The following individuals graduated as members of the Leadership Southeast Georgia Class of 2026:

Richard Baker, Chris Benson, Nathan Benson, Katrina Bostick, Shay Bowen, Emily Cannon, Tanya Chisholm, Denise Cooper, Andrew Cosey, Ava Edwards, Theresa Falker, Shana Fennell, Sean Fox, Bethany Gilliam, Azsha Hankerson, Kat Hoyt, Robert Kitchings, Malissa MacKay, James Mitchell, Antwone Mohammed, Molly Morell, Vicky Nelson, Zandra Overstreet, Chad Pace, Shannon Phillips, Conni Reynolds, Matt Saxon, Alison Shores, Tony Uhrich, Alan Volskay, Rebecca Walden, and LaNisha Whitten.

Leadership Southeast Georgia extends its appreciation to the Program Managers, Board of Directors, alumni volunteers, host communities, speakers, and sponsors whose support made the Class of 2026 possible.

"As we celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2026, we are also looking toward the future. Leadership Southeast Georgia continues to play an important role in developing informed, connected leaders who are committed to the success of our region," said LSEGA Board Chair Leia Dedic. "We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2027 and continuing to strengthen the network of leaders shaping Southeast Georgia's future."

As one program year concludes, preparations begin for the next. LSEGA alumni and sponsors are invited to nominate leaders who are making a difference in their organizations, professions, and communities throughout Southeast Georgia. Nominations for the Leadership Southeast Georgia Class of 2027 remain open through July 24.

Leadership Southeast Georgia’s 2026 program is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors, including M.E. Sack Engineering, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, Georgia Power, Georgia Southern University, Coleman Company, Hussey Gay Bell, Savannah Economic Development Authority, World Trade Center Savannah, Goodwill Southeast Georgia, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, International Paper, HunterMaclean, AT&T, Liberty County Development Authority, McIntosh County Industrial Development Authority, Seagate Terminals, Truist, Cecilia Russo Marketing, and Dabbs, Hickman, Hill & Cannon.

Local sponsors for the Chatham County session included VyStar Credit Union, Ad Specialty, City of Savannah, Oak View Group, Savannah State University, Savannah Technical College, Georgia Coastal Trade Group, Georgia Matters, APR Group, TQ Constructors, Inc., Healthy Savannah, Broughton Street Liquor, and the LSEGA Class of 2017.