The Bell County Chamber of Commerce Launches the First Bell County Youth Leadership Class

PINEVILLE, Ky. — The Bell County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the launch of the inaugural Bell County Youth Leadership (BCYL) class, a new program designed to empower students from Bell County, Middlesboro, and Pineville High Schools with the skills, confidence, and connections to become future leaders in their community.

Developed in partnership with Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKCTC), the year-long program provides students with hands-on learning experiences focused on leadership, civic engagement, and career readiness.

The 2025–26 BCYL class held its first meeting on October 15 at the Bell-Whitley Community Action Agency in Pineville. The opening retreat, led by Janet Jackson of the Bell County Leadership Steering Committee, focused on communication, teamwork, and understanding personal leadership styles through interactive activities such as “Leadership Totem Poles,” “Colors Personality Styles,” and “The Communication Pipeline.” The session concluded with a team-building exercise titled “Building Blocks,” which challenged students to apply their communication and collaboration skills in real time.

“We are incredibly proud to see this program come to life,” said Elizabeth Madon, Executive Director of the Bell County Chamber of Commerce. “Our goal is to invest in the next generation of leaders right here in Bell County—students who will not only dream big but also have the tools and confidence to make those dreams happen.”

“Leadership starts with self-awareness and communication,” said Janet Jackson, who facilitated the day’s workshop. “These students came in eager to learn and left with a deeper understanding of what it means to lead with empathy, collaboration, and creativity.”

The October retreat was sponsored by Pic Pac and Jimmy John’s, both local businesses that support youth leadership and community development.

Participants in the 2025–26 Bell County Youth Leadership class include:

Bell County High School
Lyla Scearse, Leah Jones, Ashlyn Stewart, Briar Baker, Payton Elliott, and Sophia Good

Middlesboro High School
Gavin Sherman, Talyn Ayers, Haven Branham, Addison Lucas, and Kaylee Henderson

Pineville High School
Makayla Caldwell, Mackenzie Caldwell, Makayla Brock, Isabella Adams, and Emmie Dishman 

Several students shared their excitement about being part of the first BCYL class.

“My favorite part about being in this program is connecting with students from other schools and realizing how our different strengths fit together,” said Payton Elliott, a Bell County High School student. “I learned a lot about who I am as a leader and how communication plays such an important role in teamwork.”

“This experience helped me see that every leadership style has value,” said Emmie Dishman of Pineville High School. “When we work together and understand each other’s strengths, we can accomplish so much more.”

“Bell County is such a special place to me, and I’m thankful to God for this opportunity to grow as a leader,” added Addison Lucas of Middlesboro High School. “Learning how to lead with confidence is something I’ll carry with me long after this program.”

Throughout the year, participants will meet monthly to explore topics such as local government, economic development, higher education, and community service. The program aims to develop leadership potential while connecting students with business and civic leaders across the region.

“This is exactly the kind of collaboration that builds stronger communities,” Madon added. “By working together—schools, businesses, and colleges—we’re creating opportunities for our young people to see themselves as part of Bell County’s bright future.”

For more information about the Bell County Youth Leadership Program or to learn how your business can get involved, contact the Bell County Chamber of Commerce at [email protected] or visit www.bellcountychamber.com.