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
2000’s Decade
Name: Shannon Wiggins
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2009
High School: Salem High School
College: The University of Georgia/University of West Georgia
Current Role: Director of Public Relations & Communications, City of Chamblee
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?
I used to be a shy and introverted teenager until I attended two summer camps through the 21st Century Leaders Program. This program encouraged me to come out of my shell and to connect with other peers from across the state. From attending those camps, I eventually became friends and classmates at The University of Georgia with several of those individuals. 21CL taught me the importance of networking, building connections, and being confident in myself. Developing those skills has helped me to become a communications professional for local municipalities where I am responsible for keeping thousands of residents informed, educated, and engaged. In times of crisis, 21CL has prepared me to become a fearless leader in rolling out a communications plan and protocol for my staff that focuses on keeping the community safe and informed in a timely manner.
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.)
My most memorable moment is how sad I was when leaving the 21CL Summer Camp. I cried two summers in a row on the very last day of the program because I didn’t want to leave my friends, and I was afraid of not seeing my counselors again. My counselors, including Timothy Frank Moore Parham, made a huge impact on my life. They helped me to believe in myself and to just be myself! Little did I know that this thing called “social media” would be a tool that would change how the world connects with each other. So, I was very glad that I was able to still connect with my friends and counselors via Facebook for mentoring, advice, or to catch up!
Did 21CL assist you in developing a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how?
21st Century Leaders helped me to understand that to become an effective leader you must be organized, a critical thinker, and a great listener. 
As a leader in my field, I use those skills daily. Being organized keeps me on track of my daily tasks. Being a great listener helps me to process how to effectively communicate an event, program, or an emergency to the community. It also allows for me to receive input from my staff who keep our department afloat with their innovative ideas. Having good critical thinking skills helps me to analyze, interpret, and evaluate any decision that I make that may benefit my organization.
Why do you believe programs like 21CL are important? And what advice would you give to a current or future student?
Programs like 21st Century Leaders are important because they are critical in the development of youth. Young people need to be surrounded by like-minded individuals who will encourage them to reach their goals and expose them to new opportunities. If it wasn’t for 21CL, my social skills would be lacking, my confidence would be low, and I wouldn’t know what it takes to be a leader. I encourage future students to get involved in 21st Century Leaders or find similar programs that are committed to your personal and professional development.
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