HomeLife Academy Student Claire Pratt Named Leadership University Graduate
HomeLife Academy student Claire Pratt is one of 39 aspiring young leaders who completed the 2025-2026 Leadership University program, a community youth leadership development program of the Greater Jackson Chamber. The class represents all public, private, and homeschooled juniors in Jackson – Madison County high schools.
Leadership University is a ten-month program designed to identify a diverse group of high school students who demonstrate leadership potential; and to develop in an interactive environment, the framework for constructive leadership, committed involvement and responsible participation in the future of this community. The major sponsors of the program this year are Union University and Jackson State Community College. Leadership Sponsors include Allen Samuels, Jackson Energy Authority, Leaders Credit Union, MG Construction Company, and The University of Memphis – Lambuth. We also have many supporting sponsors whose contribution is invaluable.
“Working with this Leadership University class has been such a rewarding experience. We’ve had the opportunity to watch these students learn, grow, and build the skills they need to become strong future leaders in our community. It has been inspiring to see them encourage one another, share different perspectives, and step up in meaningful ways throughout the year. Congratulations to the Leadership University Class of 2026! This is only the beginning,” said Ryan Blake, vice-chair of Leadership University.
During the celebration, class members were recognized for their achievements and received their Leadership University graduate certificate of completion. Ben Cates, Jackson Christian School, received the honor of the Judy Renshaw Youth Leadership Award for surpassing all requirements in Leadership University.
Throughout the program, class members completed 64 classroom hours, 989 hours of community service, and a group project. Leadership University students discussed ethical leadership with local leaders, participated in mock job interviews, tackled alcohol and drug issues, and other activities. The program helps the class members see their community from different viewpoints and focus on where they can make a positive difference.
The 2025-2026 Leadership University class includes:
Homelife Academy – Claire Pratt,
Augustine School – Tucker Davenport, Grant Schiebout, and Graham Straka
Jackson Academic STEAM Academy – Aubry Adams, Zakeria Holmes, and Kaylin Hudson
Jackson Christian School – Ben Cates, Hunt Clark, Mattie Garrison, Emma Long, and Isabella Reid
JCM-Early College High School – Ki’Mora Carroll, Kimora Hurt, Katie Peachey, Hope Steverson, and Carter Washington
Madison Academic Magnet High School – Karmen Ayala, Lola Greenway, Nora Manley, Trice Mullens, Parks Patrick, Willow Ross, Abbey Wilson,
South Side High School – Zandria Cohill, Xavier Davis, Cadye Hayes, and Mason Murchison,
Trinity Christian Academy – Lake Helton, and Brianna Smith
University School of Jackson – Lola Agbetoyin, Bailee Farmer, Mary Blake Ferguson, Eli Freeman, Addy Kirkland, Aarna Mehta, Josh O’Neal, Lilly Teague, and Jesse Via
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