Sixteen local students were sworn in at the Oct. 22 City Council meeting to serve on the inaugural Valdosta Youth Council. The VYC, initiated by Mayor John Gayle and approved by the Valdosta City Council at their Sept. 24 meeting, seeks to inspire and prepare local middle school students for leadership and civic opportunities, while allowing them to gain a better understanding of municipal government and community service.
 
Selection was based on academics, involvement in school and community organizations, leadership potential, and a written recommendation from a school administrator. The City of Valdosta congratulates the following VYC members:
 
Margaret Amelia Barnett, 8th Grade, VMS
Rachel Carter, 8th Grade, VMS
James Drew Correll, 8th Grade, VMS
Jahmareé Council, 7th Grade, VMS
Dante’ Echols, 8th Grade, JL Newbern
Matthew Hall, 8th Grade, HCA
Charlesie Hammond, 8th Grade, St. John
Jalith Harding, 7th Grade, JL Newbern
Russell Hunter, 7th Grade, VMS
Makayla Jackson, 6th Grade, JL Newbern
Nikerria Jones, 6th Grade, JL Newbern
Erin Kelly, 7th Grade, St. John
Zion Leggett, 7th Grade, VECA
Clara Abbi Long, 7th Grade, VMS
Taylor Ramsey, 7th Grade, JL Newbern
Christayanna Williams, 7th Grade, JL Newbern
 
“It is my desire to engage these youth in their local government before they reach high school and give them opportunities to grow as leaders in our community,” said Mayor Gayle. “I look forward to working alongside these young leaders throughout the school year, hearing their concerns and suggestions, and witnessing the impact they will have on their peers and within our community.”
 
The VYC is guided by a VYC Advisory Board appointed by Mayor John Gayle, who serves as the head of the board. The 2015-2016 VYC Advisory Board members are: Valdosta Councilman Ben Norton, Lynn Orenstein of Valdosta Middle School, Jennifer Williams of J.L. Newbern Middle School, and city staff members Teresa Bolden and Sementha Mathews.