NEWS

Leadership Savannah’s Class of 2025 gathered on November 12 at the scenic New Ebenezer Retreat Center for its closing retreat—an opportunity for reflection, connection, and vision casting. The day marked both the culmination of a transformational yearlong journey and a renewed call to serve Savannah with purpose and integrity.

The morning opened with Leadership After Leadership Savannah, a conversation moderated by Dr. Joe Buck and featuring alumni leaders Austin Hill, Somi Benson-Jaja, Diana Morrison, and Steve Greenberg. Panelists shared candid insights on carrying the lessons of Leadership Savannah into their professional and civic lives, reminding the class that leadership is a lifelong practice, not a final destination.

The momentum continued with Leadership’s Call to Public Service, moderated by Bert Brantley and featuring Commissioner Adot Whitely, Mayor Dana Williams, and Sam McCathern. Their discussion emphasized the vital role civic engagement plays in shaping policy, strengthening community institutions, and driving meaningful change in Savannah.

Following lunch, Bill Kelso led the introspective session My Call to Action!, guiding participants through exercises to translate the year’s lessons into concrete commitments for impact. The retreat concluded with small-group discussions and presentations, leaving the class energized and aligned around a shared purpose.

Leadership Savannah remains one of the Chamber’s most influential programs—empowering emerging leaders to understand their community deeply and to play an active role in shaping its future.