Leadership Baldwin County

Leadership Baldwin County Leadership Baldwin County was established in 1989 by the University of South Alabama Baldwin County and Baldwin County United.

Leadership Baldwin County is a program designed to identify current and potential leaders and enhance leadership in Baldwin County, Alabama. The program unites people from various areas of the county and addresses issues from a county-wide perspective. Leadership Baldwin County offers its members a broad range of experiences and insights about the county, its people, its needs, its services, its c

hallenges and opportunities. Beginning in October of each year, a new class participates in monthly sessions scheduled in different locations throughout Baldwin County.

🌟 Leadership Baldwin County: State Government Day in Montgomery! 🌟We had an incredible experience in Montgomery, diving ...
03/14/2025

🌟 Leadership Baldwin County: State Government Day in Montgomery! 🌟

We had an incredible experience in Montgomery, diving deep into the workings of our state government! Here’s a glimpse of our agenda:

🏛️ State Capital Tour: We kicked off the day exploring the historic halls of the Alabama State Capitol.

🤝 Meeting with Secretary of State, Wes Allen: We gained valuable insights into the vital role of the Secretary of State in our democracy.

🏛️ State House Tour with Representative, Matt Simpson: A fascinating look at the heart of Alabama’s legislative process!

🥗 Lunch with State Treasurer, Young Boozer: Engaging discussions on fiscal responsibility and the future of Alabama's economy.

📚 Alabama Archives Tour: We explored the rich history of our state and its impact on our community.

🚜 Commissioner Pate Presentation and Department of Agriculture and Industry Tour: We learned about the essential work being done to support Alabama's agriculture sector.

Thank you to everyone who made this day possible! It was an eye-opening experience highlighting the importance of state governance and its impact on our community.

Introducing Margaret CalhounSouth Baldwin Director, Ecumenical MinistriesAfter graduating from Troy University in 2010, ...
02/24/2025

Introducing Margaret Calhoun
South Baldwin Director, Ecumenical Ministries

After graduating from Troy University in 2010, Margaret Calhoun began her career with Pike County DHR, serving in various roles. In 2014, she transitioned to working at a residential facility for adults with mental illness, where she found her passion for helping others. After earning her master’s degree in social work in 2017, she moved to Baldwin County and joined Ecumenical Ministries as a case manager. In September 2023, she was promoted to South Baldwin Director, where she now leads her team in serving those in need.

Margaret finds fulfillment in working with a dedicated team that supports one another. She also enjoys serving neighbors in times of crisis and helping them find stability.

Key Accomplishments:
- Earned her master’s degree in social work while balancing a full-time job and family
- Promoted to South Baldwin Director of Ecumenical Ministries in 2023

Originally from Troy, Alabama, Margaret moved to Baldwin County in 2017. She is an active member of Anchor Point Church and loves traveling and spending time with her family.

Fun Fact: She loves pickles!

Favorite Quote: “What you put in is what will pour out.”

Why Leadership Baldwin? Margaret is excited to collaborate with fellow leaders to find meaningful ways to contribute to the community.

What she loves about Baldwin County: She appreciates the small-town atmosphere and the natural beauty that Baldwin County offers.

How she hopes to contribute: Margaret hopes to identify community needs and find ways to make an impact beyond her current role, expanding her reach to serve Baldwin County in new ways.

We’re excited to welcome Margaret Calhoun to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to seeing the positive impact she’ll make!

🚨 Local Government & Public Safety Day 🚨Leadership Baldwin County dives into a full day of learning, insight, and hands-...
02/21/2025

🚨 Local Government & Public Safety Day 🚨

Leadership Baldwin County dives into a full day of learning, insight, and hands-on experiences! Here’s some of the highlights:

📢 Baldwin County Commission Panel
Commissioner Jeb Ball, County Administrator Roger Rendlemen, and County Engineer Frank Lundy discuss growth, infrastructure, and county initiatives.

⚖️ Courthouse Tour
Presiding Judge Stankoski, Circuit Clerk Brenda Ganey, and Chief Assistant District Attorney Teresa Heinz guided us through the heart of Baldwin County’s judicial system.

🚔 Baldwin County Corrections Tour
An inside look at the jail, a CERT (Corrections Emergency Response Team) demo, and a special visit with K9 Leya!

🚓 Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office Training Facility
• Presentations from Sheriff Anthony E. Lowery & Deputy Coroner Troy Dyess
• Training Unit & SWAT Team insights
• Live Demonstrations: K9 apprehension, Bearcat & equipment, SWAT tactical demo, flashbang & explosive breaching, and range time!

Huge thanks to Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office for providing lunch and hosting an incredible afternoon of hands-on training and demonstrations!

Introducing Michelle BugosDirector - Human Resources, City of Orange BeachWith over 25 years of experience, Michelle Bug...
02/21/2025

Introducing Michelle Bugos
Director - Human Resources, City of Orange Beach

With over 25 years of experience, Michelle Bugos is a seasoned Human Resources and operations professional. Her expertise spans leadership, regulatory compliance, safety and risk management, strategic planning, and business process development in both the private and public sectors. Michelle is passionate about providing exceptional service to support employees and leading professional development and strategic planning initiatives.

Michelle thrives on supporting employees and fostering their professional growth while contributing to strategic initiatives that enhance workplace development.

Key Accomplishments:
- Co-developed a patented software program for the construction industry
- Led the COVID-19 return-to-campus plan after nearly a year of shelter-in-place
- Played a key role in implementing a statewide software program for the Alabama Community College System

Originally from Central Illinois, Michelle has lived in Baldwin County for 3.5 years. She enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, biking, and going to the beach.

Fun Fact: Growing up on a farm, Michelle learned to drive tractors, mowers, and trucks at just six years old!

Favorite Quote: “Keep your face always toward the sunshine—and shadows will fall behind you.” —Walt Whitman

Why Leadership Baldwin? Being new to Baldwin County, Michelle saw Leadership Baldwin as the perfect opportunity to meet people, network with professionals, and become more involved in her community.

What she loves about Baldwin County: Michelle appreciates the warmth of the people, the beauty and uniqueness of Baldwin County’s communities, and the fantastic climate.

How she hopes to contribute: Michelle hopes to get involved in local youth programs, assist with fundraisers, and support Baldwin County schools through community engagement.

We’re excited to welcome Michelle Bugos to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to her contributions!

Introducing Gina GipsonPrincipal, Mathis Elementary SchoolGina Gipson has dedicated her career to education, beginning a...
01/16/2025

Introducing Gina Gipson
Principal, Mathis Elementary School

Gina Gipson has dedicated her career to education, beginning as a kindergarten teacher in 1995 at the K-1 Center in Fairhope. Over 16 years, she taught 3rd through 5th grades before transitioning to administration. After earning her Educational Leadership certificate in 2012, Gina spent 11 years as an assistant principal. Now, as the principal of Mathis Elementary School, she is passionate about supporting students, teachers, and parents to achieve common academic, behavioral, and social goals.

Gina finds great joy in working collaboratively with students, teachers, and parents to identify solutions and achieve shared goals.

Key Accomplishments:
- Earned National Board Certification for Teachers, a rigorous and reflective process that has profoundly impacted her professional growth and her students’ success

Gina moved to Baldwin County in 11th grade and graduated from Fairhope High School. In her free time, she enjoys reading in her book club, spending time with her nieces and nephew, and continuing her education as a lifelong learner.

Fun Fact: Gina once crashed a wedding in New Orleans, enjoying great music and delicious food!

Favorite Quote: “You are braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem.”

Why Leadership Baldwin? Inspired by her brother, a Leadership Baldwin County alumnus, Gina joined the program to grow as a leader and make meaningful connections that will benefit the community.

What she loves about Baldwin County: Gina loves living near the bay, finding peace and serenity in its natural beauty.

How she hopes to contribute: Gina hopes to build community connections that will support and enhance the Baldwin County School System, furthering its mission to serve students and families.

We’re excited to welcome Gina Gipson to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to the positive impact she’ll make!

Introducing Sydney T. ScogginsOwner, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Certified Employee Assistance Professi...
01/13/2025

Introducing Sydney T. Scoggins
Owner, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, EAP Lifestyle Management, LLC

Sydney T. Scoggins is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Certified Employee Assistance Professional with extensive experience across a variety of settings, including community mental health, schools, human resources, hospice care, and home healthcare. As the owner of EAP Lifestyle Management, LLC, Sydney leads a team dedicated to enhancing the well-being and productivity of client companies and organizations. Her mission is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where individuals and groups can gain insights and tools to navigate personal and workplace challenges, fostering healthier lives and environments.

Sydney thrives on building relationships with individuals and organizations, tailoring solutions to their unique workplace dynamics. She values understanding people’s needs to offer meaningful support and foster positive changes.

Key Accomplishments:
- Secured new company clients through referrals from existing satisfied clients, reflecting trust in her Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services

Originally from Leroy, Alabama, and a graduate of high school in Jackson, Alabama, Sydney now calls Baldwin County home. In her free time, she enjoys going to the beach, playing golf, volleyball, and tennis, spending time with family and friends, listening to podcasts and audiobooks, and hearing her husband play guitar and sing.

Fun Fact: Sydney can dribble a basketball between her legs while walking!

Favorite Quote: “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.”

Why Leadership Baldwin? Growing up in a family that valued community and neighbors, Sydney joined Leadership Baldwin to build relationships and actively contribute to making a positive impact in the county. She looks forward to learning from other top leaders and refining her leadership skills.

What she loves about Baldwin County: Sydney treasures the county’s access to both the bay and the gulf, with their beautiful sunrises and sunsets offering moments of peace and connection to nature.

How she hopes to contribute: Sydney plans to provide support to Baldwin County residents through volunteering her expertise in mental health and collaborating with other leaders to address community needs.

We’re thrilled to welcome Sydney T. Scoggins to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to the difference she’ll make!

Introducing Dr. Shannon SmithPrincipal, Spanish Fort High SchoolDr. Shannon Smith began her career in education in 2002 ...
01/09/2025

Introducing Dr. Shannon Smith
Principal, Spanish Fort High School

Dr. Shannon Smith began her career in education in 2002 as a math teacher and soccer coach at Murphy High School. In 2012, after moving to Baldwin County, she joined Daphne High School as an Assistant Principal and International Baccalaureate (IB) Program Coordinator. Dr. Smith was later named Principal of Spanish Fort High School, where she continues to advocate for students and guide them toward becoming successful young adults.

Dr. Smith thrives on the dynamic nature of her job, where no two days are ever the same. She loves being an advocate for students and watching them grow into accomplished young adults.

Key Accomplishments:
- Earned her doctorate by the age of 30

An army child, Dr. Smith grew up primarily on the West Coast and attended high school in Atlanta, Georgia. Now a Baldwin County resident, she enjoys spending her free time boating with her family, reading, and exercising.

Fun Fact: Shannon moved from Atlanta, Georgia to Mobile, Alabama to play soccer at The University of South Alabama. Go Jags!

Favorite Quote: “Mediocre people don't like high achievers, and high achievers don't like mediocre people.” —Nick Saban

Why Leadership Baldwin? Dr. Smith joined Leadership Baldwin to forge relationships with leaders from diverse industries and learn from high-performing professionals outside of the education sector.

What she loves about Baldwin County: Dr. Smith feels fortunate to live in an area that people choose as a vacation destination. She believes Baldwin County is the best place to raise a family, with a public school system that offers a top-notch education.

How she hopes to contribute: Dr. Smith aims to offer suggestions and sound advice that prioritize the future generation when impactful decisions are made. She brings a perspective focused on the mental and physical growth of Baldwin County’s children, ensuring their needs remain at the forefront of community initiatives.

We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Shannon Smith to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to the impact she’ll make!

Introducing Misty ThomasonRecords Clerk, Fairhope Police DepartmentMisty Thomason is a hardworking and reliable professi...
01/07/2025

Introducing Misty Thomason
Records Clerk, Fairhope Police Department

Misty Thomason is a hardworking and reliable professional who excels at communicating with people at all levels. Known for her flexibility and commitment, Misty takes pride in supporting her community by helping residents access the information they need through her role at the Fairhope Police Department.

Misty loves helping her community and ensuring they have access to the resources and information they need.

Key Accomplishments:
- Selected as a peer support team member, providing additional support to her colleagues

Originally from Lenoir, North Carolina, Misty has embraced Baldwin County as her home. In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her grandchildren.

Fun Fact: Misty loves to skate.

Favorite Quote: “We rise by lifting others.”

Why Leadership Baldwin? Misty joined Leadership Baldwin after hearing about the impactful projects the group is involved in. She is excited to engage with her peers and contribute to meaningful initiatives.

What she loves about Baldwin County: Misty appreciates the small-town feel that Baldwin County offers, which fosters a sense of close-knit community.

How she hopes to contribute: Misty hopes to gain valuable knowledge about opportunities in Baldwin County and share this information with the community to help others thrive.

We’re thrilled to welcome Misty Thomason to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to the positive difference she’ll make!

Introducing Ken PimperlSystem Engineer, Baldwin EMCKen Pimperl is a Baldwin County native who graduated from Auburn Univ...
01/03/2025

Introducing Ken Pimperl
System Engineer, Baldwin EMC

Ken Pimperl is a Baldwin County native who graduated from Auburn University in 2005 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. While in college, he worked with an engineering consulting firm on ALDOT construction and inspection projects. After graduating, Ken returned to Baldwin County and began his career with Baldwin EMC, where he has worked for the past 17 years. As the System Engineer, Ken focuses on ensuring the electrical system meets the area’s growing demands and resolving power quality issues for Baldwin EMC members.

Ken enjoys long-range planning to ensure Baldwin EMC’s system capacity keeps up with Baldwin County’s rapid growth. He also finds satisfaction in working directly with members to resolve power quality concerns.

Key Accomplishments:
- Played a significant role in Baldwin EMC’s advanced metering project, contributing to improved system efficiency

A native of Bay Minette, Ken enjoys spending his free time outdoors, hunting, fishing, and working on hands-on projects. Currently, he’s remodeling an old house and previously built a 25-foot pirate ship playhouse for his kids.

Fun Fact: Ken built a 25-foot pirate ship playhouse in his yard for his children.

Favorite Quote: “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.”

Why Leadership Baldwin? Ken joined Leadership Baldwin to become more involved in the community, contribute through local projects, and expand his network.

What he loves about Baldwin County: Ken appreciates Baldwin County’s diversity. From the bustling beaches and tourism in the south to the serene rural landscapes of the north, he loves the variety of activities and places to explore.

How he hopes to contribute: Through Leadership Baldwin, Ken hopes to raise awareness and funds for community projects and discover additional ways to volunteer and give back to the county he loves.

We’re excited to welcome Ken Pimperl to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to his contributions!

Introducing Fred HardmanSVP / Commercial Relationship Manager II, SouthState BankFred Hardman began his banking career a...
12/27/2024

Introducing Fred Hardman
SVP / Commercial Relationship Manager II, SouthState Bank

Fred Hardman began his banking career as a teller while studying at the University of South Alabama. After graduating, he joined First Gulf Bank as a Commercial Trainee and quickly advanced to the role of Commercial Lending Officer. Today, Fred serves as a Senior Vice President at SouthState Bank, continuing his commitment to helping clients and supporting the community through his work.

Fred values the relationships he builds with both his clients and co-workers. Each time he helps close a loan, he feels a sense of personal achievement, knowing he’s positively impacted both the customer and the community.

Key Accomplishments:

- Advanced from Commercial Trainee to Senior Vice President in commercial lending

Originally from Mobile, Fred has called Baldwin County home since 1993. In his free time, he enjoys coaching youth sports and spending time outdoors with his family.

Fun Fact: Fred was a drummer for many years in school and at church.

Favorite Quote: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul.” —Matthew 16:26

Why Leadership Baldwin? Fred joined Leadership Baldwin to gain a deeper understanding of the county where he has spent most of his life.

What he loves about Baldwin County: Fred appreciates Baldwin County’s people and the high quality of life it provides for his family.

How he hopes to contribute: By learning more about the county’s initiatives and challenges, Fred aims to focus his volunteer efforts where they are most needed, making a meaningful impact in the community.

We’re excited to welcome Fred Hardman to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to the positive difference he’ll make!

Introducing Ashley MooreManager, Women’s Program Development, Thomas Hospital/Infirmary Health SystemAshley Moore has de...
12/20/2024

Introducing Ashley Moore
Manager, Women’s Program Development, Thomas Hospital/Infirmary Health System

Ashley Moore has dedicated over a decade to healthcare, with the past 2.5 years focused on her role as Manager of Women’s Program Development at Thomas Hospital. In this position, she collaborates with healthcare specialties to promote women’s wellness education and resources, aiming to build healthier communities. Ashley is also an active member of the State of Alabama Office of Women’s Health Steering Committee, an Ambassador for the American Cancer Society’s Voices of Black Women study, and a member of the Alabama Public Health Association.

Ashley is passionate about empowering women to prioritize their health and wellness. She loves working with various healthcare specialties to develop educational initiatives that make a meaningful impact on the community.

Key Accomplishments:
- Planned and implemented low-cost and free educational programs for women and families, including prenatal breastfeeding, newborn care, and safety classes
- Created accessible platforms for women’s health education through community groups, blogs, newsletters, and events
- Certified in Lean Healthcare and Basic Life Support

Originally from Dothan, Alabama, Ashley enjoys spending her free time reading, taking walks, traveling to new places, and watching TV with her family.

Fun Fact: An award at the University of South Alabama’s Student Government Association is named after her: the Ashley Ford Homecoming MVP Award.

Favorite Quote: “To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived—that is to have succeeded.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson

Why Leadership Baldwin? Ashley joined Leadership Baldwin to learn more about the culture and history of the community she works in and to build relationships with other local leaders.

What she loves about Baldwin County: Although she doesn’t live in Baldwin County, Ashley loves its beautiful beaches and incredible seafood.

How she hopes to contribute: Ashley hopes to leverage her skills, resources, and relationships to promote healthier communities through impactful community events.

We’re excited to welcome Ashley Moore to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to the difference she’ll make!

🌟 Today was an incredible day of learning, connection, and insight as we explored the critical health, emergency service...
12/12/2024

🌟 Today was an incredible day of learning, connection, and insight as we explored the critical health, emergency services, and nonprofit agencies that serve Baldwin County!

We had the privilege of hearing from Margaret Roley, CEO of Baldwin Health and Arthur Johnson, of Thomas Hospital, who shared valuable insights into healthcare in our community.

🚁 A highlight of the morning was a visit from one of the MedStar Air Care Helicopters, showcasing the lifesaving work they do every day.

We enjoyed informative presentations from the following:

- Tom Tyler, Baldwin County EMA
- Bryan Dedeaux and Scott Warner, Baldwin County 9-1-1
- Margie Walters, Baldwin Family Village
- Ann Marie Meadows, Long Leaf Recovery

🍴 LA BBQ provided a delicious lunch—thank you for fueling our busy day!

Afterward, we boarded a bus graciously loaned by Coastal Community College, and headed out to visit:

- Baldwin Youth Services
- Family Promise
- Boys Ranch
- CAREHouse

From emergency response to community support services, today reinforced the importance of collaboration and the power of organizations working tirelessly to make Baldwin County a better place.

Introducing Kellie IsbellSchool Counselor, Baldwin County Public Schools – Baldwin County High SchoolKellie Isbell’s pro...
12/03/2024

Introducing Kellie Isbell
School Counselor, Baldwin County Public Schools – Baldwin County High School

Kellie Isbell’s professional journey spans corporate management, healthcare administration, and transportation, distribution, and logistics. However, she found her true passion in education five years ago, beginning as a Career Tech Coach. Today, as a school counselor, Kellie is committed to fostering student success and advocating for the impact school counselors have on school culture and student development.

Kellie thrives on collaborating with students, teachers, and the community. She loves advocating for the school counseling profession and spreading awareness about its transformative impact on students and school culture.

Key Accomplishments:
- Proud contributor to the Summer Utility Internship program, a collaborative initiative with utility companies across the county that provides high school juniors with workforce experience before their senior year

A lifelong resident of the Spanish Fort/Daphne area and a 2006 graduate of Daphne High School, Kellie enjoys exploring Alabama’s natural beauty with her family.

Fun Fact: Kellie is also a bi-vocational Children’s Director at East Pointe Baptist Church.

Favorite Quote: “Find your own success and OWN it!”

Why Leadership Baldwin? Kellie joined Leadership Baldwin to expand her network across the entire county and learn more about opportunities that could benefit her students. She’s excited to gain knowledge about Baldwin County’s resources and share it with students to help them explore their future options.

What she loves about Baldwin County: Kellie treasures the time she spends with her family on the Bay. Having grown up in the area, she finds joy in raising her boys in the same beautiful community.

How she hopes to contribute: Kellie hopes to raise greater awareness about the vital role of school counselors and their impact on student success. She’s passionate about sharing her knowledge to enrich Baldwin County’s community and educational system.

We’re excited to welcome Kellie Isbell to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to her contributions to the county!

Introducing Jensen GraddickDeputy Director, Human Resources, City of DaphneJensen Graddick began her career in Human Res...
11/29/2024

Introducing Jensen Graddick
Deputy Director, Human Resources, City of Daphne

Jensen Graddick began her career in Human Resources as an intern with the City of Daphne in 2021. During her final semester at the University of South Alabama, she was offered a full-time position as an HR Specialist. She quickly advanced to Senior HR Specialist in 2022 and was promoted to Deputy Director of HR in September 2024. Jensen is passionate about investing in employees and supporting their career growth, all while contributing to the community she loves.

Jensen finds it incredibly rewarding to connect with City of Daphne employees and witness their career growth. She values the opportunity to give back to her community by fostering the success of the people who make the city a wonderful place to live.

Key Accomplishments:
- Achieved SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional) certification in 2022 while working full-time

A lifelong resident of Daphne, Jensen enjoys working out, exploring true crime documentaries and comedy podcasts, and spending time outdoors with her husband and their dog, Peach. She also loves discovering new restaurants for great food and drinks.

Fun Fact: Jensen did gymnastics for 10 years and can still walk on her hands!

Favorite Quote: “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” —Mother Teresa

Why Leadership Baldwin? Jensen joined Leadership Baldwin County to deepen her understanding of the community she grew up in and now serves through her career. She’s excited to grow her confidence as a leader while learning from the program and her peers.

What she loves about Baldwin County: Jensen appreciates the beauty and family-oriented nature of Baldwin County. Despite its rapid growth, it still feels like a welcoming community where everyone can find their place. She believes nothing compares to an Eastern Shore sunset on the Bay.

How she hopes to contribute: As a representative of the younger generation, Jensen hopes to learn more about the challenges facing Baldwin County and explore solutions to create a brighter future for the community.

We’re thrilled to welcome Jensen Graddick to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and can’t wait to see the impact she’ll make!

Introducing Bonnie BellBranch Manager, Alabama Credit UnionBonnie Bell brings over 13 years of banking experience to her...
11/25/2024

Introducing Bonnie Bell
Branch Manager, Alabama Credit Union

Bonnie Bell brings over 13 years of banking experience to her role as Branch Manager at Alabama Credit Union. Her expertise spans business development, relationship management, project management, team leadership, and branch operations. Bonnie is passionate about fostering growth within her team and creating opportunities for success.

Bonnie loves the dual aspect of her position—building and mentoring her team while connecting with the community. She takes pride in helping people find resources and solutions that meet their needs.

Key Accomplishments:

- Advocated for Alabama Credit Union’s Secret Meals for Hungry Children charity to be selected as a benefactor for the Austal USA Annual Golf Tournament

A lifelong resident of Baldwin County, Bonnie cherishes time spent with her family on the water, around a fire in the winter, or cheering for their favorite football teams.

Fun Fact: Bonnie has a passion for organizing and finds joy in arranging tubs, trays, and buckets, ensuring everything has a perfect “home.”

Favorite Quote: “Think positive thoughts, feel positive feelings.”

Why Leadership Baldwin? Bonnie joined Leadership Baldwin to connect with like-minded leaders, learn from their perspectives, and contribute to meaningful community projects. She also values the friendships and collaborations that come from the program.

What she loves about Baldwin County: Bonnie treasures Baldwin County’s proximity to the water and the wealth of outdoor activities it offers. She’s constantly learning new things about the area and appreciates its natural beauty.

How she hopes to contribute: Bonnie aims to bring attention to critical issues and foster meaningful connections that drive positive change in the Baldwin County community.

We’re excited to welcome Bonnie Bell to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to her contributions!

Introducing Garrett HughesApprentice Funeral Director, Hughes Funeral HomeGarrett Hughes began his career at the Univers...
11/21/2024

Introducing Garrett Hughes
Apprentice Funeral Director, Hughes Funeral Home

Garrett Hughes began his career at the University of Mobile, where he spent eight years in various roles. Starting in Marketing, he honed his skills in content creation, web design, photography, and videography. He later transitioned to Enrollment Services, managing special events for incoming freshmen.

Currently, Garrett is an Apprentice Funeral Director at Hughes Funeral Home, preparing to take his state licensing exam in December. His role involves meeting with families, arranging and directing services, and handling pre-need sales. Garrett is passionate about providing compassionate care to families during their most challenging moments. The opportunity to minister to others and make challenging moments a little easier is what makes his work meaningful.

Key Accomplishments:
- Played a pivotal role in a full rebrand for the University of Mobile, including logo design, branding, website, and print materials, all of which are still in use today
- Hughes Funeral Home has been recognized as Small Business of the Year and has won "Best in Baldwin" multiple times

A lifelong resident of Baldwin County, Garrett enjoys spending time with his wife and son, hanging out with friends, smoking meats, and cheering (sometimes nervously) for Auburn and the Saints.

Fun Fact: Garrett once ran a small candle business called Mason and Vela.

Favorite Quote: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” —Ferris Bueller

Why Leadership Baldwin? As a Baldwin County native, Garrett joined Leadership Baldwin to learn more about the county’s inner workings and connect with like-minded individuals. He sees this as an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally, while fostering deeper community connections.

What he loves about Baldwin County: Garrett admires Baldwin County’s constant growth and evolution, with each community offering its own unique character. Despite the changes, it still feels like the place he has always called home.

How he hopes to contribute: Garrett hopes to make a lasting impact on Baldwin County through his work, civic involvement, and community engagement. He’s committed to being an active part of the county’s growth and playing a role in its bright future.

We’re excited to welcome Garrett Hughes to the Leadership Baldwin Class of 2025 and look forward to seeing the positive impact he’ll make!

Address

P. O. Box 286
Fairhope, AL
36533

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