Valdosta Female Leaders Recognized
Press release from the issuing company
Friday, October 24th, 2014
On October 18th, the Valdosta-Lowndes Metropolitan Section of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. held its 2nd Annual Bethune Leadership Recognition Program. The formal affair was held at the James H. Rainwater Conference Center at 6 p.m. and women from all over the community were honored in three categories: High School, Collegiate and Community (25 years old and up). The purpose of the program is to recognize ladies making a difference and impacting their community based on their leadership, influence and community service with possessing the “(Mary McLeod) Bethune Mentality”
Evangelist and Pastor Leadership Director from the House of Hope, Cathy Pipkin was the guest speaker and highlighted the evening when speaking about the importance of leadership and how to see your own potential. President and Chair of the event, Sharah Denton presented organizations and businesses that were instrumental in supporting the organization since its chartering in 2011 locally were recognized and included: Chad Pigford (Pepsi), Rev. Floyd Rose, Percy Chastang, Georgia Power and the 100 Black Men of Valdosta. Denton stated that it was because of their continuous support and the work of the members that the organization has grown to the magnitude it has. Denton surprised Commissioner, Joyce Evans with a certificate for her leadership in getting a building for the organization’s Education Committees tutorial program. Education Chair and Co-Chair, Bettye McClendon and Carolyn Haigler were also surprised with a certificate for their leadership in successfully leading the committee since the organization was chartered. Denton was surprised with a token of love from the organization which was presented by NCNW Corresponding Secretary, Betty Smith.
The Mistress of Ceremony and 1st Vice President of NCNW, Tiffany Vinson introduced each nominee who were escorted by a person close to them. Their achievements and personal statements were highlighted. Two winners were chosen per category from a judging panel of five in Atlanta, Georgia who confidentially chose each winner. The honorees included: (High School) Kyanna Jackson (Brooks Co. High), Andrea Baxter (Lowndes High), Kia Loud (Valdosta High), Gabrielle Sams and Ma’at Chastang (Valdosta Early College Academy), Amber Dallas (Lowndes High); Collegiate: Chelsea Jackson, Brittany Britt (both of Valdosta State University) and Jakeitha Trimble (South Georgia State); Community: Nikki Bradley (City of Quitman), Dorothy Everson (Mt. Pisgah Baptist), Dr. Deborah Demps (Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Kappa Eta Omega Chapter), Dr. Lucretia Andrews (Union Cathedral), Rosalind Neal (Greater St. Peter Methodist), Jamie Hill (Bethlehem Baptist), Rozelle Slaymon (Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority,Inc. Kappa Psi Sigma Alumnae Chapter), Beverly Sanders (Southside Library Boosters), Carla Carter-Jordan (Valdosta Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.) and Yurshema Gray-Flanders, Valdosta District #9 Prince Hall Order of Eastern Star. Sponsors who graciously supported the event included: Wallace Law Group:Andy Stone, Barbara Garland, Jason Williams, Bouquet of Blessings, Enterprise Rent A Car, Dr. Demarcus Marshall, Kreative Kreations, Kama Sweets & Events, Crossing Jordan Baptist Church, R&G Unique Printing and Lemongrass Day Spa.
