INSPIRING FUTURE LEADERS ON THE PLATEAU

The Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau hosted students from Blue Ridge Early College, Highlands School, and Summit Charter School for two incredible learning experiences.

On Wednesday, October 29th, Juniors from three different high schools gathered for the Junior Leadership of the Plateau event, a day dedicated to exploring what it truly means to be a leader. The program was made possible through the support of the Leadership Cashiers Class of 2023, the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce, the Vision Cashiers Education Task Force, and 14 local businesses and leaders who volunteered their time, talents, and expertise.

Nearly 60 students arrived dressed in business casual attire, ready to listen, learn, and lead. The event featured inspiring keynote speakers and hands-on team activities that challenged students to think creatively and work together. Mary Abranyi of Leadership Cashiers ’23 and Brandi and Mark Letson shared their personal journeys and spoke about how leadership has shaped their careers and community involvement. The session concluded with a motivational video featuring Scott Alderson and his team.

The breakout sessions encouraged teamwork and problem-solving through fun, hands-on challenges — from building a marshmallow and spaghetti tower to solving puzzles without speaking, untangling a human knot, and working together to “stay on the carpet.” Each activity highlighted essential leadership qualities such as collaboration, creativity, and communication.

The learning did not stop there. On Thursday, October 30th, it was the seniors’ turn to take part in Thrive 101 – How to Thrive Instead of Just Survive in a Post–High School World, a program designed to prepare them for life beyond graduation. Sponsored by the Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau and the Vision Cashiers Education Task Force, this event also welcomed around 60 students eager to learn valuable life skills.

Throughout the day, seniors rotated through stations focused on personal management, interpersonal skills, effective communication, and using zero talent to succeed. The seniors practiced interview techniques, learned proper handshakes and business lunch etiquette, and honed their networking and small-talk skills. They also had the chance to express their creativity by designing and decorating their own tote bags. Mary Abranyi and Cody Kessler gave heartfelt presentations on “What We Wish We Had Known Before Graduation.”

Students left both events feeling inspired, more confident, and connected to their peers. One student shared that the experience helped them “realize their strengths and see leadership in a whole new way.”

These two days of learning and laughter would not have been possible without the dedication of Dr. Joy Clark, who organized the events for the third year in a row. Dr. Clark volunteers her time not only at the Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau but also at Summit Charter School and Blue Ridge School, continuing her commitment to empowering local youth through leadership and life-skill development.