Georgia CTI Hosts Record-Breaking Fall Leadership Conference in Columbus

COLUMBUS, GA - Georgia Career & Technical Instruction (CTI) proudly hosted the 2025 Fall Leadership Conference (FLC) on November 21–22 at the historic Columbus Convention and Trade Center, welcoming 694 attendees from 100 schools across the state. The two-day conference offered meaningful leadership development, postsecondary planning, career exploration, and hands-on experiences for students of all abilities.

The event opened on Thursday with a robust College and Transition Fair, featuring representatives from colleges across Georgia as well as key partners such as Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) and Callaway Gardens, who shared opportunities and pathways available to students after graduation.

A newly designed schedule allowed for 8 leadership workshops throughout Thursday afternoon, while students also competed in the Academic Quiz Bowl. The evening brought one of CTI’s most beloved traditions- the formal dinner and etiquette experience led by instructor Mr. Pat Brown, who guided students through professional dining skills. Entertainment was provided by Georgia 4-H Clovers and Company, adding energy and excitement to the ballroom.

Following dinner, Georgia CTI recognized winners from the Georgia Youth Competitions held earlier this fall at the Georgia National Fair and our Academic Quiz Bowl winners who competed earlier that day:

2025/26 Competition Winners:

Superior Chapter: Global Impact Academy, earning a plaque and $500.

Reserve Superior Chapter: Tift County High, earning a plaque and $250.

The night concluded with an unforgettable networking dance and celebration, featuring a 360° photo booth by 360 Booth Columbus, board games, snacks, and lively music from the DJ. The surprise star of the night was the Coca-Cola Bear, who delighted students by dancing, posing for photos, and spreading joy throughout the evening. Thank you to everyone who helped capture the joy and special moments of the night!

Friday morning launched with Georgia CTI’s first-ever Motivational Breakfast, featuring keynote speaker Caleb Branton of Georgia Power, a CTAE alumnus whose testimony of perseverance, professional growth, and personal lessons resonated deeply with students. Branton emphasized the essential role of CTAE programs in preparing Georgia’s future workforce.

Students then departed for industry tours across Columbus, where they engaged directly with professionals and explored local career pathways.

Georgia CTI extends our heartfelt appreciation to the community and partners who made FLC possible, including our Georgia Department of Education CTAE partners, the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA), and the Georgia CTI Board of Directors. We would also like to thank:

• Hayley Tillery, Executive Director of the Columbus Convention & Trade Center- for exceptional leadership, coordination, and hospitality.
• Morgan Moore, Assistant Director- for dedicated support and tireless behind-the-scenes efforts.
• Justin Bowles, Catering Sales Manager with Oak View Group- for providing outstanding service and ensuring an exceptional
dining experience.
• Kendall Seals with Seals Productions- for delivering high-quality audio/visual production throughout the two-day event.
• Ashley Woitena, CEO of Visit Columbus- for welcoming Georgia CTI to Columbus and supporting student engagement across the city.

Georgia CTI is grateful to every student, coordinator, partner, and volunteer who contributed to the success of the 2025 Fall Leadership Conference. We look forward to continuing to Challenge The Impossible with students across the state.

For further information, please contact:

Mary Davis Donahue
Georgia CTI Executive Director
(P) 678.617.0439 | (F) 706.314.9624
3 Central Plaza, #245, Rome, GA 30161

About Georgia CTI

Our Mission: To provide meaningful transition activities through leadership and employability experiences for students with disabilities in grades 9-12 identified through career, technical, and agricultural education courses in order to increase postsecondary outcomes.