January 24, 2006

LIVINGSTON, Ala.—Two University of West Alabama young women recently graduated from the Leadership Edge Institute, a Birmingham-area leadership group equipping college women to make a difference in their home state. Sarah Brown of Epes and Leigh Russell of York spent one week last summer learning the issues that affect our state from some of the top female leaders in Alabama. They returned to Livingston to serve the segments of the community for which the young women have a passion.

Brown, a junior majoring in nursing and the daughter of Edna Brown, chose to focus her efforts on nursing home patients. She visited the residents regularly to play Bingo and provide friendship, but the project impacted Brown as much as those she visited.

“I have a better understanding and outlook on ageism,” Brown said. “I can take the lessons learned and apply their wisdom and knowledge to my own life. It was nice to remind the residents that even thought they are aging, they are still valued for the differences and impact they have on people’s lives.”

Russell, the daughter of Don and Beth Russell, worked with Alabama Rural Ministries to repair homes and spend time with children living in rural poverty in Sumter County. For the senior business administration major, LEI means giving women of her generation the confidence to make a difference by serving others.

“The leadership training was very empowering,” Russell said. “Learning from women who have chosen to stay in Alabama to run for public office or to run their own businesses has encouraged me to get involved in my community and in my state.”

Pam Hall, who serves as the UWA advisor for LEI participants and as a faculty member during LEI training, sees firsthand each year the difference the organization makes in the lives of the young women chosen to participate.

“LEI is a wonderful opportunity for our young women on this campus to develop leadership skills,” Hall said. “It is a unique process because the students can use the skills learned and combine them with their own passions. LEI teaches them to have a passion for whatever you do.”

Each year, LEI trains up to 36 young women nominated and paid for by their schools. UWA has sent outstanding young women for the past four years to participate in the training and connect with more than 30 leaders, from corporate executives and scholars to community activists and political officials, who volunteer to serve as faculty and mentors.