The GEAR UP L.E.A.D Coalition Program launches its inaugural cohort this month, and 25 student leaders from across western North Carolina have been identified after a rigorous application process. The students represent eight GEAR UP districts and are in their sophomore or junior year of high school.
The L.E.A.D Program is designed to cultivate the next generation of student leaders. Through a unique blend of experiences and opportunities, students will feel empowered to positively impact their communities, families, and beyond. Student representation from multiple districts across the region will also improve cross-collaboration and synergy between the GEAR UP community in North Carolina. In addition to gaining leadership skills, students will collaborate with one another, foster personal growth, refine their communication skills, and learn how to advocate for themselves in their schools and communities.
"As we prepare to welcome the first cohort of the GEAR UP L.E.A.D. Coalition Program, I feel such excitement and pride for these incredible students stepping into leadership roles. These young leaders have so much to offer, and my hope is that this program helps them recognize and grow their unique strengths. L.E.A.D. was created with them in mind—to empower them not just as students, but as voices of change for their families, schools, and communities. I truly believe that, together, they’ll inspire one another and discover what they’re capable of achieving," says the L.E.A.D. coordinator, Yolanda Adams.
Students will participate in monthly in-person or virtual meetings, engage in hands-on assignments, and have the opportunity to attend a culminating multi-day trip to San Francisco, California for the NCCEP Youth Leadership Summit.
The following students were selected based on an application, references, and supplemental materials:
Hermione Garro - East Burke High School
Claire Houck - Ashe County High School
Jenna Gibson - Freedom High School
Sara Gomez - Mountain Heritage High School
Nora Underwood - West Wilkes High School
Brady McDevitt - Madison High School
Bryleigh Greene - Madison High School
Mariclaire Smith - Madison High School
Adrianna Chavez-Jasso - Watauga High School
Emma Herron - Swain County High School
Melea Lambert - Ashe County Early College
Macy Auton - Draughn High School
Abby (Campbell) Wehr - Robbinsville High School
Jolina Moua - East Burke High School
Maddox Keller - Freedom High School
Memphis Taylor - Swain Co. High School
Melvin Cervantes - Watauga High School
Sariah Hyatt - Swain Co. High School
Marlene Alcaraz-Galan - Watauga High School
Emily Grey Stargell - Swain County High School
Adison McLeod - Swain Co. High School
Adam Silvers - Yancey County Schools
Olivia Wingler - Wilkes Early College H.S
Brandy Jasmine Martinez Ramirez - Freedom High School
Emma Maney - Swain High School
“I am so honored to be in L.E.A.D. I really want to help my community and our youth. In my county there isn't much for the youth to do or opportunities to grow and explore. I want to somehow change that and see what the youth wants brought to Wilkes. I love my county, it's my home, I want to help it flourish,” says student Nora Underwood.
Student Claire Houck says,“I hope to learn more on how to be a better leader to provide better for my community!”
“I want to make a positive impact in my community, and to do that, we all need to come together! WNC Strong!” says student Mariclaire Smith.
Malea Lambert says, “Eager to be involved in my community and becoming a well developed leader.”
“I am passionate about giving the Hispanic community a voice and helping them out,” says student Marlene Alcarez-Galan.
“I hope to be able to be a voice for those who don’t have their own and stand up for what’s right,” says student Emma Maney.
