Celebrating the Future: Leadership Rome Graduation 2025

(Photos are below the blog text)


Last night, I had the distinct honor of photographing the Graduation Ceremony for Leadership Rome, one of our community’s most impactful programs. Hosted by the Rome Floyd Chamber, this event marked the culmination of a 10-month journey for a group of emerging leaders dedicated to making a difference in Rome and Floyd County.


As a photographer, I have the unique opportunity to witness and document the passion and pride that radiate from events like this. From candid moments of reflection to the joy of achievement, the event was filled with energy and purpose; a true celebration of commitment to community leadership.


What is Leadership Rome?

Leadership Rome (LR) is the signature leadership development initiative of Rome/Floyd County. Offered through the Rome Floyd Chamber, the program is designed to cultivate emerging community leaders through an immersive educational experience that emphasizes professional growth, civic engagement, and social awareness.

Over the course of ten months, participants in LR undergo a transformative experience that includes:

  • A mandatory retreat to kick off the journey
  • Nine in-depth monthly sessions covering key community topics
  • A collaborative class project aimed at making a tangible impact
  • Enrichment activities designed to encourage deeper community involvement

Through this comprehensive curriculum, LR helps participants:

  • Sharpen their leadership and interpersonal skills
  • Gain firsthand knowledge of local issues through direct engagement with community leaders
  • Build meaningful, long-term networks with fellow civic-minded individuals
  • Prepare to step confidently into roles that shape the future of our area


The Mission Behind Leadership Rome

At its core, Leadership Rome is about empowerment through education and connection. The program’s mission is to develop the leadership potential of both current and future community influencers by offering them the tools and opportunities they need to grow, professionally, personally, and civically.


A Night to Remember

The graduation event was a testament to the hard work and dedication of this year’s participants. It was truly inspiring to capture moments of reflection, camaraderie, and pride as each graduate received their plaque...ready to turn knowledge into action. As I edited the photos, I was struck by the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives among the graduates, all united by a common goal: to serve and uplift the Rome/Floyd County community.


Get Involved

If you're passionate about our community and looking for a meaningful way to get involved, I highly encourage you to explore the Leadership Rome program. For more information, you can contact the Rome Floyd Chamber at 706-291-7663.