Catherine Yanes and Sydney Ward are at Huntingdon College in Montgomery this week for the Huntingdon College Economic and Community Development Scholars Program. They Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce sponsored their participation in the program.

The scholars program exposes rising high school seniors to the importance of economic and community development; introduces them to the economic and community development process; engages them in considering economic development and community development as a profession; and presents economic and community development educational opportunities and experiences at Huntingdon College and in the River Region.

Economic and community development professionals and citizens who are aware of community needs and systems impact the vitality and growth of the communities in which they live and practice. Huntingdon College designed the Economic and Community Development Scholars program in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama, the Economic Development Association of Alabama, and the Alabama Department of Commerce in order to offer early awareness of community needs and opportunities in young people who are beginning their professional journeys.

The Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce asked for nominations of rising high school seniors with an interest in business, civic affairs, and public service. Students were required have earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.4 or above in their high school coursework, submit a professional resume and application, and compose an essay about what makes their community unique.