From Where I Sit…
By Bob Garrett
“Leaders are the ones who have the courage to go first, to put themselves at personal risk to open a path for others to follow.”
- Simon Sinek
Standing in front of a full class of freshly minted Young Americans, which I get the honor of doing in May of each year, I come away with this consistent thought: “Wow, the world is about to be in good hands."
The Young Americans Program and its participants are admired and highly regarded here in the Greater Susquehanna Valley. For well over half a century your Chamber has partnered with The Daily Item along with the stations of the Sunbury Broadcasting Company in awarding, hosting, and recognizing Young American honorees from more than a dozen school districts, parochial schools, and career centers.
In the next week or two, make sure tune into WKOK/WQKX hear about and/or read all about these impressive young scholars in The Daily Item, who are now marked with the seal: Young Americans. Each week a couple of Young Americans will be featured until they all get their moment of recognition running right into next summer.
I’m guessing that most of you may not have ever received a ‘Congratulations, you’re a Young American’ letter. So, here you go, this is what that letter announces to these young leaders:
“Congratulations on your selection for your school’s Young American of the Month! This program recognizes and prepares the next generation of leaders for our great community.
We are so proud of you and everything you’re doing in your school and community. We at the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce believe that you are our future, and we commit to providing support and guidance to you to ensure your preparation for a great future.
Our goal is to not only to prepare you, but to recognize and provide confidence in your abilities. We believe that you will continue to grow in your leadership and have so much to offer for your family, your community, and your country.
It is a great honor to receive this recognition from a program with nearly sixty years of history. Previous Young Americans include top CEO’s, Judges, Doctors, Public Servants and so many more. Today, you may add your name to that list.”
Zach Stotter
Director of Membership & Workforce
Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce
