MOULTRIE — Chad Horne, Career Technical Agricultural Education director for Colquitt County School District, was recognized for completing a seven-month regional leadership program called South Georgia Leads.

The program bolsters leadership capacity in South Georgia through immersion into the local economy and training around effective leadership strategies.

“This experience has given me a clearer understanding of the significance of regional leadership and the importance of working together to ensure South Georgia is a bright spot in the state,” said Horne. “Throughout the program, we were exposed to various topics, including agriculture and natural resources, visioning and livability, military and legislative affairs, tourism, and education. It was a privilege to be selected for this program, and I will be forever grateful for the connections and friendships I have made along the way.”

The Georgia Chamber of Commerce and the J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development at the University of Georgia created South Georgia Leads in 2016. To learn more about the program, visit https://southgeorgialeads.org/.

Horne was also recently selected to serve on a steering committee led by the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission. This committee is a partnership with the Regional Commission, Georgia Tech, and the Georgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing Project. The committee will develop a statewide Artificial Intelligence strategic plan, including region-specific recommendations to enhance Georgia’s AI capabilities and infrastructure.

Horne said, “I am excited to represent the school district and high school on this committee and look forward to the growth and opportunities AI will bring to our community. We are thankful for the support from the Regional Commission in helping us bring more advanced technologies to our CTAE pathways.”

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission selected Colquitt County School District and Colquitt County High School as one of the few districts to receive Georgia AIM funds. It will purchase virtual simulators to enhance access to advanced technologies in training students for the workforce. The Regional Commission serves fourteen counties in South Georgia, providing various services and supports, including grant writing and administration, community and economic development, and planning and zoning support. To learn more, visit swgrc.org.