Businesses help youth in Edmond succeed 

Each year, businesses in Edmond help make a difference in the lives of local youth. The Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce hosted 48 graduates in the Youth Leadership Edmond (YLE) program this past year. This was the largest class in program history and wouldn’t be possible without the sponsorship of local businesses.

YLE is an opportunity for area high school juniors—and seniors were included this past year—to develop their leadership skills. The program provides opportunities for students to gain knowledge and skills to become productive leaders in the community.

All students in the program have a 3.0 GPA or higher and are selected through a rigorous application and interview process. This year, class 20 graduated on April 28, 2022. Class speakers were Campbell Christensen from Memorial, Haley Hart from North, and Monique Agura from Santa Fe. 

The program was presented by Francis Tuttle and wouldn’t be possible without the support of Edmond Public Schools and session sponsors MIDCON, UCO, and Cowboy Chicken.

Randy Allen, CEO of MIDCON, is glad to be a sponsor of the program. 

“At MIDCON, we’re a big believer in helping the youth of today who are willing to put in the work,” said Allen. “Youth Leadership Edmond is a great opportunity for them to gain insight, experience, and skills they can use to enhance their leadership skills.”

Edmond Chamber CEO Sherry Jordan appreciates local leaders like Allen, who partner with the Chamber on programs including YLE. 

“We are very thankful for local Edmond businesses that partner with the Edmond Chamber of Commerce to sponsor the Youth Leadership Edmond program so young leaders in the community can enhance their leadership skills, gain a broader perspective of the issues in their city, learn about career options and take an active role in improving their community by introducing them to volunteer opportunities,” said Jordan. 

Many individuals volunteer their time for the program, reviewing applications, interviewing students, and sharing their expertise and insights during the sessions with the students.

Next year, the program will once again only be available for juniors. Interested students should connect with the Edmond Chamber online, as applications will be available in August on the Chamber’s website.

Are you interested in volunteering for or sponsoring an upcoming YLE class? Contact the Edmond Chamber for additional information.