Paris, TN — After eight months of intensive leadership training and community exploration, the Henry County Leadership Class of 2025 will celebrate their graduation at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, June 7 as part of the Tennessee River Jam festivities.
Throughout the program, 18 local professionals from diverse industries gained valuable insights into topics such as economic development, education and workforce development, local government, Henry County history and the arts, tourism, and agriculture. Participants also strengthened their leadership skills through team-building activities and collaborative projects that fostered lasting relationships.
Rachel Steedly, the class facilitator, reflects on the journey, noting that this year’s group “embraced every opportunity to grow both personally and professionally, bringing unique energy and perspectives that will help shape the future of Henry County.”
Graduates of the 2025 Henry County Leadership Class include:
- Katelynne Allison – Board of Public Utilities
- David Andrews – Henry County Sheriff’s Department
- Caleb Orr – L.I. Smith and Associates
- Shane Paschall – Paris Special School District
- Abby Pierce – City of Paris
- Lilli Taylor – Carroll Bank & Trust
- Luanne Taylor – Chesmore Dental
- Jarod Wilson – Volunteer Distributing
- Josh Biggers – All-Temp Heating and Cooling
- Zack Braham – City of Paris
- Cedrick Byars – City of Paris
- Ashton Cate – Commercial Bank & Trust
- Donna Cole – Carroll Bank & Trust
- Ashlyn Egizio – Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce
- Leslie Henegar – Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce
- Krista Taylor – Dyersburg State Community College
- Lesley Trudeau – First Bank
- Leah Watkins – Henry County School System
In addition to their leadership development, the class completed two community service projects, raising funds and providing support to local nonprofit organizations. Full details on these impactful efforts will be shared in an upcoming press release.
The public is invited to attend the graduation ceremony during the Tennessee River Jam downtown concert.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the next Henry County Leadership Class! Applications for the 2025–2026 program are now open. Professionals who live or work in Henry County and want to develop their leadership skills and community knowledge are encouraged to apply. Visit www.paristnchamber.com or call 731-642-3431 for more information.