Leadership Selma-Dallas County celebrated yet another graduating class Thursday as nineteen locals finished the yearlong program.

Class XIX of Adult Leadership has been one of the best, and most hard-working classes that has completed the program, said Beth Taylor, director. Through participating in the class, Taylor said Selma and Dallas County has gained 19 excellent ambassadors.

“We try to touch on every single aspect in the community so these adults can get to know Selma in a more intimate manner and become more knowledgeable about the area,” Taylor said. “This past year they’ve explored city and county government, public service, economic development, agriculture and much more.”

To celebrate their graduation, members met at the home of Betty Miller in Valley Grande where they fried catfish, grilled chicken and reminisced on the year spent together in the Adult Leadership program.

Robin Woodson, one of the 19 graduates, said participating in Adult Leadership was a rewarding experience, and she recommends that others participate in the program this next year too.

“I initially signed up just because everyone says it’s something you’re supposed to do,” Woodson admitted. “But it really did end up being a great program. I had a great experience with it. I learned so much about my community and formed great friendships with other area business leaders.”

The best part of the program, Woodson said, was touring local businesses.

“Being able to go behind the scenes of a lot of these businesses was really neat,” she said. “You find out how the community functions and what it needs.”

One of Class XIX’s biggest projects this year, Taylor said, was hosting a raffle to raise money for the Youth Leadership program.

“They raised $11,300 through the raffle,” Taylor said. “That money will help sustain the Youth Leadership program and keep their tuition fee small, which is great.”

Taylor encouraged all those interested to participate in next year’s program, Leadership Class XX. The kick-off retreat for the program will be held July 26 and 27.

“It really is a great program. If you’re looking to get more involved in the community and learn more about Selma and Dallas County, this is definitely something to get involved in,” Taylor said.