The North Augusta Chamber of Commerce will host a special Power Luncheon panel discussion titled “Generation Next: Students on the State of Our Community,” spotlighting the perspectives of local students and young professionals on the future of the greater North Augusta-Augusta region.

This thought-provoking event brings together five outstanding young leaders – alumni of the Chamber’s Junior Leadership Academy – to share their insights on education, workforce readiness, community development, and what today’s emerging generation needs to thrive and stay rooted in the region.

“Our goal with this panel is to create space for honest dialogue between our region’s decision-makers and the rising generation of talent,’ said Terra Carroll, President and CEO of the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce. “These students represent not only the future workforce, but also future civic leaders, entrepreneurs, and advocates. Their voices matter now.”

Featured Panelists:

• Cooper King, Augusta University – Finance major and commercial real estate intern

• Sherry Kong, University of Pennsylvania – Pre-Med/Neuroscience & Fine Arts {double major}

• Makayla Murray, University of South Carolina – Incoming Pre-Nursing major

• Malik Reynolds, Columbia College – Biology major and student-athlete

Panelists will respond to curated questions about their academic journeys, career aspirations, community involvement, and expectations for the places they live, work and grow.  The discussion will be moderated by Ms. Alvina Jackson, CTE Program Specialist at Aiken County Career and Technology Center.