Leadership Johnston Honors the Class of 2025

Johnston County, NC — November 21, 2025 — The Johnston County Coalition of Chambers and Johnston Community College proudly celebrated the Leadership Johnston Class of 2025, recognizing a remarkable group of graduates who have spent the past nine months learning, connecting, and strengthening their leadership impact across the county.

This year’s class represents a diverse group of professionals — bankers, educators, attorneys, healthcare providers, developers, business owners, and managers — all committed to deepening their understanding of Johnston County while investing in their personal and professional growth. Their dedication exemplifies the spirit of leadership, collaboration, and community service that the program strives to cultivate.

The ceremony featured a keynote address from Judge Addie Rawls, a trailblazing jurist, minister, and community leader. As the first elected African American District Court Judge for North Carolina’s Eleventh Judicial District, Judge Rawls shared a powerful message grounded in her leadership framework of the Three P’s: Purpose, Power, and Passion. Her inspiring journey — guided by faith, resilience, and service — reminded graduates that with God, all things are possible.

Leadership Johnston extends heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2025. We look forward to watching these graduates continue to grow, prosper, connect, and lead in Johnston County.

A special thank you goes to KS Bank, the presenting sponsor for Leadership Johnston, whose support makes this program and special evening possible. Another special thank you to the coalition of Johnston County Chambers (Benson Area Chamber of Commerce, Clayton Chamber of Commerce, Four Oaks Chamber of Commerce, Kenly Chamber of Commerce, and Triangle East Chamber of Commerce) along with Johnston Community College.

2025 Graduating Class

Dr. Choya Boykin, Choice Plus Academy

Helen Caloz, HomeMasters Pest Control

Alisha Coley, KS Bank, Inc.

Lisa Cooper, Johnston Community College

Maggie Crandall, Johnston Community College

Katlyn Creech, UNC Health Johnston

Charlie Crews, The Insurance Shoppe of North Carolina, Inc.

Andrew Harris, Town of Smithfield

Carter Jones, Narron Wenzel, P.A.

Ryan Jordan, Flowers Plantation Info & Sales

Joelina Landa, United Community

Shatisha Mclaurin, Rainbow Childcare and Learning Center LLC

Zeke Powell, First Citizens Bank

Shannon Sellers, Showing My Roots

Erin Smith, Johnston County Public Health Department

Lynne Sullivan, Gorman Group Insurance

Courtney Tanner, Town of Clayton

Amanda Thompson, KS Bank, Inc.

Alicia Whitehurst, Wintergreen Hospitality

Dana Wooten, Clayton Chamber of Commerce

About Leadership Johnston

Leadership Johnston is designed for individuals who want to deepen their involvement in Johnston County and strengthen their leadership skills. The program is ideal for professionals at any stage of their leadership journey — from emerging leaders to seasoned executives — and provides opportunities for networking, community engagement, and hands-on learning.

Businesses aligned with leadership, professional development, and community advancement are encouraged to sponsor the program. Sponsorship offers meaningful visibility among local decision-makers and demonstrates a commitment to supporting Johnston County’s future leaders.

For more information about Leadership Johnston or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Kelly Wallace at kellywallace@triangleeastchamber.com