Leadership Columbia County (LCC), a Columbia County Chamber program presented by TaxSlayer, is proud to announce the selection of its highly anticipated Class of 2026. These 34 accomplished professionals represent a diverse cross-section of industries and organizations across the Greater Augusta Region, poised to further develop their leadership skills and contribute to the growth and well-being of the community.

"We are incredibly excited to welcome the Class of 2026," said Russell Lahodny, President and CEO of the Columbia County Chamber. "This cohort embodies the talent, dedication, and passion that will drive the region forward. We look forward to seeing the positive impact they will undoubtedly make on our community through their enhanced leadership capabilities."

Please join us in congratulating the members of the Leadership Columbia County Class of 2026:

• Amanda Richardson - Augusta University

• Andy Caudell - Keystone Homes

• Ashley Rice - AWR Agency

• Carey Anne Cushman - CCBOE

• Danielle Harris - SRNS

• Farzana Hussaini - ADP

• Holly Hendrix - Goodwin Recruiting Partner

• Holly Johnson - Silverton Mortgage

• Jamey Kitchens - Grovetown Police Department

• Jamie Pierce - Pinnacle Bank

• Jason Warner - Allegra Image 360

• Jena Puckett - Meybohm Real Estate

• Jennifer Finley - Augusta Surgical Group/PC/Vein Specialist of Augusta/New Skin Medical Spa

• Jeremy Wallen - Columbia County Fire Rescue

• Jordan Birdsong - SME CPA

• Kasey Torrey - Doctors Hospital of Augusta

• Katherine Pollock - Wellstar MCG Health

• Kelsey McCullough - Wellstar Children’s Hospital

• Kimberly Brabham - ADP

• Lauren Garren - Thomas & Hutton

• Mickey Meeks - Queensborough Bank & Trust

• Micki Berrios - Augusta Technical College

• Nick Smail - Merrill Wealth Management

• Oree J. White, Jr. - Cyber Center of Excellence

• Ralph Squillace - Summit Appraisal Services

• Ryan Logan - Via Cognitive Health

• Scott Brantley - Beman Group Real Estate

• Setordji Abotsi - John Deere

• Troy Mason - ADP

• Velvette Myles - Piedmont Health Augusta-RICCI

• Wendy Bradley - SouthState Bank

• Will Dasher - Blitch Law Firm

• Will McCranie – Augusta/CSRA Habitat for Humanity

• Winston Suggs - 6 Star Realty

The Class of 2026 will be led by program Chair Rhonda Banks (LCC ’10), Associate Vice President at Augusta University, and program Vice Chair Alex Griffin (LCC ‘23), Assistant Vice President of Innovation at the Medical College of Georgia Foundation.

The rigorous selection process for each LCC class identifies individuals with a proven track record of achievement and a strong commitment to civic engagement. The program is designed to cultivate and inspire the next generation of leaders through immersive learning experiences, community engagement, and networking opportunities.