Applications are now open for Leadership Augusta’s Class of 2026, closing on April 18th. Established in 1980 by the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Augusta is dedicated to educating and inspiring emerging and existing leaders to strengthen the community. The program offers participants in-depth exposure to regional achievements, challenges, and opportunities while fostering meaningful connections across cultural and economic boundaries. Sarah Childers will be the adult Class of 2026 Chair, and Taylor Lamb will serve as Co-Chair.
Sarah Childers, Class of 2021, is the Director of Destination Experiences at Destination Augusta and Assistant Film Liaison for Film Augusta. She leads initiatives to attract visitors and enhance local experiences, including the award-winning Authentic Augusta Experience collection and the Augusta Coffee Trail. With extensive experience in event planning, project management, and marketing, she also founded the Augusta Handmade Fair. Childers holds a liberal arts degree from California Baptist University and lives in North Augusta with her husband and daughter.
Taylor Lamb, Class of 2024, is the Director of Marketing & Creative Services at Augusta University, overseeing marketing strategies, advertising, and branding. Previously, he served as Digital Content Manager and Director of Athletic Media Relations. Taylor collaborates across university teams to support strategic initiatives and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Georgia College & State University and a Master of Science in Sport Management from Georgia Southern University. He resides in Columbia County with his wife and three children.
Applications are also open for Youth Leadership Augusta’s redeveloped Class of 2026, closing on April 26th. This program, designed for rising juniors and seniors, aims to identify and cultivate young leaders through educational experiences that enhance leadership skills, community awareness, and a commitment to service. Dr. Katrina Hutchins and Ashley Whitaker will serve as Chairs for the Class of 2026.
Dr. Katrina Hutchins, Class of 2025, is the Founder & President of Re-Source Solutions, specializing in organizational growth and leadership development. A Certified Personal and Executive Coach, she holds a Doctorate in Education from Northeastern University and certifications in diversity and inclusion and behavioral consulting. An accomplished author and speaker, her work empowers women and youth through initiatives like the Voice Leadership Camp. Dr. Hutchins is dedicated to community upliftment through her foundation and resides in Grovetown.
Ashley Whitaker, Class of 2025, has over 15 years of nonprofit and marketing experience, currently serving as Director of the Columbia County School District Foundation. She previously led community engagement at Shepeard Blood Center and raised over $500,000 for JA of Georgia’s JA Discovery Center of the CSRA. Active in community service, she serves on multiple boards and is a Rotary Club member. Ashley holds a Bachelor’s in Professional Writing & Communications, a Master of Public Administration, and a Nonprofit Management Certificate from Augusta University. She lives in Summerville with her family.
Applicants can find more information and online applications at leadershipaugustaga.com.
