Gordon County Schools recently celebrated the accomplishments of its Aspiring Leaders Program participants as they presented their Capstone leadership projects and officially graduated from the district’s year-long leadership development experience.
The Aspiring Leaders Program is designed to build leadership capacity among Gordon County Schools employees who aspire to serve in formal leadership roles. Throughout the program, participants engage in professional learning modules focused on school and system leadership, developing the skills and abilities needed to advance the vision of the district.
This year’s culminating event provided participants the opportunity to showcase their growth through Capstone leadership presentations. These presentations reflected the knowledge, collaboration, and leadership practices participants developed throughout the program, while also demonstrating their commitment to serving their schools and community.
Congratulations to the following Aspiring Leaders Program graduates:
Kim Adair (W.L. Swain Elementary)
Sylvia Ashley (Ashworth Middle School)
Taylor Fain (Red Bud Middle School)
Jonathan Fuller (Sonoraville High School)
Natasha Hall (Central Office)
Shelby Johnson (Belwood Elementary)
Maci Mills (Gordon Central High School)
Hannah Nelson (Sonoraville High School)
Mallory Parris (Tolbert Elementary)
Hayley Pollard (Tolbert Elementary)
Laramie Rodriguez (Gordon Central High School)
Ethan Samples (Sonoraville High School)
Shelby Santos (Fairmount Elementary)
Matt Wiley (Ashworth Middle School)
Megan Wiley (Tolbert Elementary)
The program works in conjunction with Dr. Letishia Seabrook Jones of GLISI. Guided by her core values of excellence, connection, and leadership, Dr. Jones empowers educators and school leaders to create spaces and strategies that inspire growth, equity, and lasting impact. Her partnership has helped strengthen the learning experience for participants as they prepare for future leadership opportunities.
The Aspiring Leaders Program is facilitated by Human Resources Director Allen Bowen, who shared the impact the program has had on him personally and professionally. Bowen expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to get to know, support, and encourage the cohort throughout their leadership journey.
Superintendent Alice Mashburn also offered words of encouragement to the graduates, recognizing their dedication to growth and their willingness to lead with purpose. She commended the participants for investing in their own development and for preparing to make a positive difference across Gordon County Schools.
Gordon County Schools congratulates each Aspiring Leaders graduate on this important achievement. Their commitment to leadership, continuous improvement, and service reflects the district’s ongoing dedication to developing current and future leaders.

