Rowan Chamber Announces Youth Leadership Rowan Class #2
August 14, 2025
The Rowan Chamber of Commerce is proud to launch the second class of Youth Leadership Rowan, which officially kicked off with an orientation for parents and students on Wednesday evening at the Paul E. Fisher Gateway Building.
Following the remarkable success of the inaugural class, which far exceeded expectations in excellence, drive, and heart, the Chamber and Youth Leadership Steering Committee is eager to build on that momentum.
“It’s been incredibly rewarding to see a vision take shape, a dream fulfilled, and real impact made in our community,” said Dr. Alisha Byrd-Clark, Program Coordinator. “This program is laying the foundation for future leaders who will continue to make a lasting impact in Rowan County.”
Modeled after the Chamber’s long-standing Leadership Rowan program for adults, Youth Leadership Rowan empowers high school juniors to develop leadership skills, connect with community leaders, and gain a deeper understanding of Rowan County’s history, resources, and opportunities. The seven-month program offers interactive days focused on topics like local history, human needs, government, and communications.
“After seeing the success of our first class, we know this program can inspire students to invest in their hometown. By connecting them with local leaders and providing real-world skills, we’re helping prepare them for a future of impact in Rowan County and beyond,” said Nick Means, Leadership Rowan Chair.
The 25 students selected for Class #2 represent eight Rowan-Salisbury High Schools. Each student was carefully selected through a competitive application process based on their leadership potential, community involvement, and commitment to personal growth. The class includes:
Salisbury High School: Abe’Briell Allen, Roselyn Henriquez, Lucy Jones, Jordan Waller
South Rowan High School: Haiden Hinson, Kate Wheeler
West Rowan High School: Isabelle Bringle, Morgan Davis, Taylor Finney, Brooks Zino
North Rowan High School: Michael Alford, Akeriah Roseboro
Rowan County Early College: Alan Espinosa, Vanessa Free, Emily Martinez, Evelyn Salazar
Summit Virtual Academy: David Saravia, Taelor Sherrill
East Rowan High School: John Bergen, Maicey Miller
Jesse C. Carson High School: Andrew Davis, Rylee Hedrick, Konnor Karriker, Colton Monteith
The program is planned and facilitated by the Program Coordinator, Dr. Alisha Byrd-Clark, and the Youth Leadership Rowan Steering Committee: Nick Means, Dr. Christine Lynn, Erin Moody, Elaine Holden, Holly Teeter, Gemale Black, Kaisha Brown, Adam Clark, Elaine Spalding, Sydney Murphy, and Margaret Antosek.
For more information, contact Dr. Byrd-Clark at 704-640-7254 or youthlead@rowanchamber.com.