YOUth LEAD, a leadership program for high school students, kicked off Wednesday.

During the morning, the class learned about communication, team-building and diversity from Dr. Ken Tucker, dean of the University of West Alabama’s College of Business.

After lunch, the group volunteered to work at the Christmas on the River warehouse on floats and decorations.

Future sessions for the class will focus on the local economy, government and related topics.

Class members are Matt Dauphin, Latoria Fields, Krisshandra Fluker, Paige Gandy, Baleigh Grace, DeAndria Hicks, Meredith Hill, Drew Jones, Shakira Jones, Riley King, Wil Logan, Charlie Parten, Lauren Parten, Peyton Pearson, Alicia Pickens, Brooke Reeves, Chyanna Robinson, Briana Rowser, Morgan Saliba, JaMiyiah Smith, Stephen Stewart, Chandler Stuedeman, Haley Webb and Mary Frances Webb.

For more information, visit the program’s Facebook page, “YOUth LEAD” or call chairwoman Catherine Meador at (334) 289-8069.