The Milledgeville-Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the graduation of the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2026. This year’s class was recognized during a special ceremony celebrating nine months of leadership development, community engagement, and personal growth, on Tuesday, April 28th at Allen’s Market.

Leadership Baldwin is a community leadership program designed to cultivate and connect emerging and established leaders who are committed to shaping the future of Baldwin County. Through monthly sessions, participants gain firsthand insight into key sectors such as local government, education, economic development, healthcare, and public safety.

The program also emphasizes leadership skill-building, collaboration, and community involvement.

The Class of 2026 demonstrated a strong commitment to learning, service, and leadership throughout the program. As part of their experience, participants completed a class project benefiting Communities in Schools of Milledgeville-Baldwin County. The class organized a uniform drive, collecting 261 uniform items, representing an estimated economic impact of $3,750, along with $120 in monetary donations for uniforms. They also hosted a spirit night fundraiser at Surcheros, raising an additional $250 to support the initiative.

Courtney Bentley, Class President and Director of Communities in Schools of Milledgeville-Baldwin County, added, “Leadership Baldwin's uniform drive for Communities in Schools of Milledgeville/Baldwin County was a huge success! Providing these uniforms to students allows them to show up ready to learn and removes a financial burden from families in our community.”

“We are incredibly proud of this year’s class and the dedication they’ve shown over the past nine months,” Ashley Couch, Member Relations Manager of the Milledgeville-Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce. “Leadership Baldwin continues to play a vital role in developing informed, engaged leaders who are ready to serve and strengthen our community.” 

Graduates of the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2026 include: Courtney Bentley, Holly Blenk, Chelsey Brantley, Dr. Kristina Brooks, Renee Burgamy, Courtney Chavers, Jessica Elliott, Tyler Goforth, KeShawn Harris, Haylee Hurley, Jennifer Johnson, Sarah Beth McMillan, Dr. Stephanie McMillan, Brandi Mitchem, Nancy Mize, Laura Polack, Morgan Queen, Justin Seymour, Will Smith, and Rachel Stump

For additional information, please contact Ashley Couch at 478-453-9311 or email at [email protected].