04/28/2026
✨ A meaningful close to an unforgettable year — congratulations, Leadership Atlanta Class of 2026! ✨
This weekend’s closing retreat and graduation brought it all full circle. From the opening moments to the final walk across the stage, every experience reflected the growth, connection, and purpose that define this class.
We kicked off by spotlighting Community Leadership Projects, where classmates shared the impact they’ve made alongside organizations across Atlanta—advancing work in education, youth development, housing, and beyond.
Throughout the retreat, participants leaned into what matters most:
💬 Classmate Connections Continued — deepening relationships that will last a lifetime
🌟 Leaving Your Legacy: What’s Next? — reflecting on how to carry this experience forward
🤝 Becoming Alumni — stepping into a lifelong community of leaders
🪞 Reflection Circle — sharing personal growth and transformation
A special highlight was hearing from Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, whose commencement address challenged and inspired the class to continue leading with purpose and making an impact in our city.
And finally, the moment it all built toward… 🎓a powerful Graduation Ceremony celebrating not just the completion of a program, but the beginning of what comes next.
From study groups to late-night conversations, from project work to personal breakthroughs—this class showed up fully, supported one another, and embraced the journey.
Special thanks to Closing Retreat co-chairs Daniel Preister '23 and Joy Wilder Lybeer '23 who generously donated their time and expertise to plan the commencement as well as Tameka Rish'20, Condace Pressley'16, S. Rob Todd'24, Corteney Stewart'15, Deanna Anderson'18, DeRetta Cole Rhodes, MBA, PhD'24, H. Yvonne Bryant Johnson'97 and many others who took time out to join the class at Lanier Islands to contribute to their moment. And of course to Gairy Moore'20 who served as Program Chair all year!
Congratulations, Class of 2026. Your leadership is just getting started. đź’™
