Young Leaders of East Alabama, TROY partner to launch Alabama's first Chamber of Commerce dual-enrollment program

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Young Leaders of East Alabama, a flagship program of the East Alabama Chamber of Commerce, has joined forces with Troy University to offer an unprecedented dual-enrollment opportunity for young leaders in the region. This collaboration marks the first time a chamber of commerce in Alabama has provided such an educational advancement program, underscoring the commitment to fostering academic excellence and leadership among the youth of East Alabama.

The partnership leverages Troy University’s ACCELERATE Dual Enrollment Program, designed to offer high school students a head start on their college education by allowing them to earn college credits while still in high school. Through this initiative, participants in the Young Leaders of East Alabama program will have the unique opportunity to engage in college-level coursework, gaining valuable skills and knowledge that will prepare them for their future academic and professional endeavors.

East Alabama Chamber of Commerce President Melissa Gauntt and Dr. Dionne Rosser-Mims, Vice Chancellor of TROY’s Phenix City Campus, recently announced the new dual enrollment partnership.

“We are thrilled to partner with Troy University to bring this innovative program to our young leaders,” said Melissa Gauntt, President of the East Alabama Chamber of Commerce. “This initiative not only provides a significant academic advantage but also aligns with our mission to cultivate the next generation of leaders who will drive the future of our community and beyond.”

The ACCELERATE Dual Enrollment Program at Troy University is renowned for its rigorous curriculum and diverse course offerings, providing students with a robust educational experience. By integrating this program into the Young Leaders of East Alabama, participants will benefit from enhanced educational opportunities, including access to university resources, faculty mentorship, and collegiate exposure.

Dr. Dionne Rosser-Mims, Vice Chancellor at Troy University’s Phenix City Campus, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership.

“We are proud to collaborate with the East Alabama Chamber of Commerce on this pioneering initiative. Our ACCELERATE program is designed to empower high school students with the tools they need to succeed in higher education and beyond,” Dr. Rosser-Mims said. “This partnership exemplifies our commitment to community engagement and educational innovation. I want to acknowledge Payton Linder, Community Engagement Coordinator, for his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to establish TROY’s inaugural dual enrollment initiative in Phenix City.”

The Young Leaders of East Alabama program is dedicated to developing leadership skills, civic engagement, and community awareness among high school students. By incorporating dual-enrollment opportunities, the program aims to enhance the academic and personal growth of its participants, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the future. The program accepted 18 participants for the Young Leaders of East Alabama into the dual-enrollment program that is set to begin this fall.

As the first initiative of its kind in Alabama, this partnership between the Young Leaders of East Alabama and Troy University’s ACCELERATE Dual Enrollment Program is poised to set a new standard for educational excellence and leadership development within the state. For more information about the Young Leaders of East Alabama, visit the East Alabama Chamber of Commerce at ealcc.com. To learn more about Troy University’s ACCELERATE Dual Enrollment Program, visit www.troy.edu.