By Sherry Larson
“Leadership is influence – nothing more, nothing less.” John Maxwell’s foundational quote about leaders guides new class members as they explore Adams County and learn what it means to lead in their community.
The 2026 Leadership Adams graduation was held at Winchester Church of Christ in Christian Union. Michelle Daniels, Leadership Adams treasurer, kicked off the day with words of reflection and introduced keynote speaker, Liz Lafferty of Leadership Adams Class of 2013. Lafferty is the former Superintendent of ACBDD and has worn many leadership hats in the community.
Each class is required to complete at least one project that benefits the community and supports the mission of Leadership Adams “to improve the quality of life for all who live and work in Adams County by developing and preparing individuals to assume leadership responsibilities in their communities and organizations.”
Lafferty spearheaded the 2013 class project and tackled the transformation of the Adams County Fair. She highlighted the project’s success while noting the challenges and obstacles along the way.
Executive Director Jeff Foster and Program Coordinator Danielle Poe presented awards to the 2026 class. Teresa Lewis, Regional Director for Congressman David Taylor (R-OH), read a proclamation from the representative. Justin Pizzulli (R-OH) of the 90th District addressed attendees and presented state awards to the adult participants. Michael Parker, a graduate of the 2026 class, gave an overview of their journey.
The graduates of Leadership Adams 2026 are: Carl Riggins, Dr. John Shupert, Lisa Scott, Rob Reeder, Amie Gardner, Michael Parker, Bambi Jones, Brenton Ballis, Ariana Bowles-Norris, Michael Thompson, Alan Bird, Jaylyn Smith and Ty Stephens.
Mat Reno, Youth Academy Coordinator, and Poe presented awards to the student participants. Class member Clayton Clark spoke on behalf of the youth’s experience.
The graduates of the 2026 Youth Academy are: Julia Wagner, Elliana Applegate, Elizabeth Raines, Clayton Clark, Landen Doyle, Calen Vogler, Eli Mason, Charles Brewer, Logan Caldwell, Kaydence Brewer, Mia Kingsley, Jed Shivener, Dylon Purtee and Joshua Stevens.
Michael Pell, a founding board member of Leadership Adams, gave an overview of the organization’s history and offered a blessing before the meal.
After lunch, Gary Cooper, CEO of Southern Ohio Communication Services, Inc., and the day’s sponsor, spoke about the significance of the rocks each student selects during their day on Brush Creek and the ties to the Book of Joshua.
Kirk Larson, Vice-President of the board, gave final comments and summarized the day. He thanked Daniels and her team at the First State Bank for coordinating the event details and Board Member and Lead Pastor of WC3U, Chris Johnson, for the accommodations.
Larson concluded, “Adams County is one of the smallest counties in Ohio, and the people are stepping up – leading and driving this county to punch above its weight. We need you to be a part of that and continue to lead and support this community.”
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