Applications are being accepted for an annual program that shines a light on the best the Augusta region has to offer for future leaders.
Top 10 in 10 was started by the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce in 2009. It is for young professionals, aged 25-35, who are leaders in their respective fields.
Angie Cox, President and CEO of the Chamber, said the goal is twofold. First, to show the depth of talent, from artists to medicine to business to education in Metro Augusta. Second, the winners are submitted to Georgia Trend Magazine to be considered for its annual 40 Under 40 list to share Augusta’s talented individuals statewide. In 2024, the Georgia Trend list included Dr. Jermaine Whirl, currently President of Augusta Technical College.
“We have always had a number of applicants, and sometimes it takes two and three times applying, because the pool is just oozing with talent and with community involvement and with recognition and awards that they’ve received,” Cox told ABD. “It’s really hard to narrow it down just to 10, but the whole premise is to see where they are in 10 years. So, that’s part of the questionnaire; Where do you see yourself, or what are your career goals in the next five and 10 years?”
As 2024 marked the 15th year for the annual selection, the Chamber brought together a panel of previous winners along with the career goals listed in their applications. One was Dr. Mark Thompson, selected in 2009, who was an adjunct professor at Augusta University.
Today, he is the Dean of the Hull College of Business.
Thompson served as keynote speaker at last year’s announcement luncheon. He told the incoming cohort to stay true to themselves and their passions, but don’t be afraid to step out of their comfort zone.
“Take chances, especially when opportunities present themselves, and it is okay to pivot, set goals, and then reset them and hold yourself accountable,” he advised the group. “Don’t just build your network. Build up your network. The people around you and this community are one of the most important resources that you have. You have already done great things to be recognized today but remember that this award highlights the potential that you bring to your professional career. So don’t be afraid to take chances.”
Cox said there is no one career field considered an ideal candidate for Top 10 in 10. It is how each individual hones their craft to become successful in their professional journey and how they presents themselves in the biographical section of the application.
“I would say the selection committee reviews their self-biographical information, because they want to know how the nominees view themselves, and how they promote themselves, and how they challenge themselves,” she said. “So, I think that the awards and the list of certificates and recognitions that they have on there, it really is also about the narrative that they provide on their journey, both professionally and personally.”
Cox said no one can nominate someone they believe to be deserving. Only the individual themselves can enter their nomination.
“Part of this is putting the responsibility on the individual and making them take a deep look at how they would sell themselves. So, we don’t have nominations. It’s got to be a self-nomination,” she explained. “We do ask that you put some thought into it, because it is going to be reviewed, and I promise you, you’re going to have stiff competition no matter who you are.”
Top 10 in 10 is a partnership with Augusta Magazine. The nomination period is currently underway. Applications must be received by March 21. The questionnaire is on the Chamber’s website, https://www.augustametrochamber.com/top10in10
The Chamber has also started taking applications for the Leadership Augusta 2026 class, as well as the Youth Leadership Augusta Class of 2026. Leadership Augusta provides immersive exposure to regional achievements, challenges, and opportunities for community leaders. Youth Leadership Augusta is for rising high school juniors and seniors. The goal is to identify young leaders to educate, and enhance leadership skills and community awareness.
Application for Leadership Augusta must be submitted by April 18. Young Leadership applications are due by April 26.
Applications and more information are available at www.leadershipaugustaga.com
