He admitted he was probably the most reluctant student in the program. And now he wouldn’t trade anything for the experience.

Alex Teague, a student at Gaylesville School, was the recipient of the First Annual Youth Leadership Cherokee Award. Teague was presented with a plaque and $100 during the recent Youth Leadership Cherokee Graduation Banquet. The event was held in the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce headquarters on the campus of Gadsden State Community College-Cherokee.

Youth Leadership Cherokee 2008-2009 was sponsored by the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, Cherokee County Extension Office and Gadsden State Community College-Cherokee. Other sponsors included First Southern State Bank, KTH Leesburg Products, Regions Bank and TDS Telecom.

“I didn’t even show up for the first program,” said Teague. “They called me and I had to drive separate from everyone else. But after participating in it, I have learned to ba a part of it. I would like to thank Luanne Hayes and everyone else. I wasn’t really sure what to expect from Leadership Cherokee. Leadership Cherokee has been a wonderful opportunity.”



“I’m glad I was allowed to participate in the program,” said Teague. “I have learned a lot about things that I never even thought I would learn about. Each month we had a different topic and we covered everything from health care to agriculture, government and more. This has not only been a learning experience for participants, but also for those of us who have brought us to these meetings. I don’t believe I will ever forget this program,. I believe that I speak on behalf of all the participants for Gaylesville High School when I say that we have thoroughly enjoyed th program and don’t regret participating in it.”

Luanne Hayes, economic development director for Gadsden State Community College-Cherokee, said the Leadership Cherokee Award is presented to the student who demonstrated outstanding leadership skills throughout this past year. She recently asked all Youth Leadership Cherokee participants to vote on the student they felt was most deserving.

Other participants shared their views on leadership and this year’s inaugural class.

Cedar Bluff Representative Maci Hughes said she has learned the importance of such qualities as honestly, diligence and intelligence over the last few months.

Leadership, Hughes said, involves more than being able to persuade others to follow, but being constantly aware of the path he or she is taking.

“A leader must be aware that the right path may not always be the easiest path, however it is always the right path,” said Hughes.

Leadership, said Brittany Suits, is that certain something that is bought with a price.

“I have learned that anyone can be a leader as long as he tries,” said Suits. “Youth Leadership Cherokee has motivate me to become a leader, not only in the classroom, but also among my peers. I have been encouraged to be a volunteer in our community and have learned many things about Cherokee County I would not known had I not participated in this program. I have learned about business etiquette. Thanks to Leadership Cherokee, I can go out and pursue the career I want with confidence. I would like to thank Mrs. Luanne Hayes and the Youth Leadership Adviosry Board for making this program possible. I would also like to thank all the counselors who attended this event. And last, but not least, I would like to thank God and our parents for helping us to discover the extraordinary leaders within us.”

“I believe I speake for myself and fellow students when I say I would not be as prepared as I am today if not for the guidance and direction of Leadership Cherokee,” said Nathan Chesnut from Sand Rock School. “I am full of gratitutde toward the program. Other programs told you what you had to do to be a leader. This program really dug into you and made you realize what you need to do. It showed you how to do it.”

“It was a big change for me,” said Tanya Musselman from Spring Garden School. “I am not really one to dress up. My idea of everyday clothing is a ratty pair of tennis shoes, old jeans with holes and a t-shirt. I have learned to present myself better. I have a lot better manners and It has just mean a lot. We made a lot of new friends. We’ve had some good times, had some funny times, and some really odd times. It has just been a blast. We have loved our new experiences and just want to thank everyone who has made this whole program possible. It has taught us a lot.”