JACKSONVILLE, AL – Two Jacksonville State University College of Health Professions and Wellness students recently completed the LEAD (Leadership, Education and Development) Program, a partnership between the Calhoun County Area Chamber & Visitors Center and Jacksonville State University.
Paige Glaspie, a Master of Public Health student, and Joy Lawrence, a nursing student, participated in the program alongside undergraduate and graduate students from a variety of academic disciplines at JSU.
The LEAD program is open to juniors, seniors and graduate students and focuses on leadership development, civic engagement, career readiness and community awareness. Participants interact with local leaders, businesses, nonprofit organizations, government agencies and other community partners while learning about economic development, quality of life and career opportunities in Calhoun County.
As part of the program, participants took part in a poverty simulation conducted in partnership with United Way of East Central Alabama. The activity was designed to provide students with perspective on challenges faced by individuals and families living with limited financial resources and to examine social and economic factors that can affect health, well-being and other community outcomes.
Students also worked on team projects focused on promoting Calhoun County and identifying strategies to encourage students and young professionals to pursue careers and establish their futures in the area.
Dr. Kelley Swatzell, associate professor and director of the Master of Public Health Program, said experiences such as LEAD can help students develop skills that extend beyond their academic programs.
“Programs like LEAD help students understand the communities they serve and strengthen their ability to work collaboratively across sectors,” Swatzell said. “These experiences prepare future healthcare and public health professionals to lead effectively, build partnerships, and address the complex challenges that impact community well-being.”
The LEAD Program is a partnership between the Calhoun County Area Chamber & Visitors Center and Jacksonville State University. It is designed to provide participating students with opportunities to learn more about Calhoun County, develop leadership skills, establish professional relationships and explore career opportunities in the area.
Jacksonville State University’s College of Health Professions and Wellness offers programs preparing students for careers in health, wellness and related fields, with areas of emphasis that include education, service, leadership and community engagement.
