For our 35th anniversary, we’ll be sharing the stories of 35 alumni showcasing the leaders they are today and how 21st Century Leaders inspired and impacted their journey. Alumni will represent the 3.5 decades since our founding in 1989 – the 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s. Take a read and be inspired!
35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight
2020’s Decade
Name: James Wilson
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2021
High School: Newton High School
College: Georgia State University
Current Role: SGA President & Intern to the Chancellor’s Office, Georgia State University
How has your career unfolded and how did participating in 21CL help prepare you for your next steps going to college, taking on a new leadership role in community/college and after?
My career has taken me from my classroom to the State Capitol and beyond. I have worked for and with our State Government in numerous capacities, and the leadership competencies I learned and developed in 21st Century Leaders set me up for success in my critical thinking, teamwork, public speaking, and networking abilities for sure.
What’s your memorable or ‘aha’ moment during your time at 21CL? (Particular program,
meeting a professional and diverse peer, speaking in public for the first time, etc.)
The 2019 Turner Voices Youth Media Institute opened my eyes in ways I still can’t describe. I had never been exposed to such a high level of professionalism, business, or leadership. Every day of the institute was a memorable experience, and the friends and connections I made there are still active parts of my life to this day.
Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If
so, how?
21st Century Leaders assisted me in developing a leadership style that’s focused on people first, and that’s been the difference between the success and failure of everything I’ve done academically and professionally in college. When people recognize that you genuinely care about them and their ideas and talents, you’ll succeed. I learned that thanks to 21CL and I practice it everyday.
Why do you believe programs like 21CL are important? And what advice would you give
to a current or future student?
Programs like this are important because so many people have leaders sleeping inside themselves, and 21CL and programs like it help to inspire and awaken our inner leader. That was certainly the case for me. My advice to current and future students in 21CL is lean in to every experience, every lesson, every event, every program, and every connection that you make through the program. There’s a lesson to be learned in everything, and if you take the time to find and apply it– you’ll thrive.
