While we may be nearing the final phase of the 2015-16 school year, the Russellville Ambassadors are just getting started. This first annual Russellville Ambassador Leadership Conference was held Wednesday, April 20, on the campus of Western Kentucky University. This event provided RJSHS Ambassadors with an exceptional learning experience centered on leadership and teamwork. Thanks to the support of the RIS School Board, we were able to provide an impressive level of leadership programming! Along with serving as a bridge between school and community, the Russellville Ambassador program has been nationally recognized as a model for student leadership development and inspiring ambassador programs across the state and nation. The Ambassadors were honored to be joined by Michael Baker, a leadership consultant who has appeared numerous times before the Kentucky state legislature on behalf of industry and workforce issues and currently serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the Owensboro Community and Technical College. Mr. Baker has conducted leadership workshops at the Kentucky state SHRM conference and a variety of business, industry, and educational organizations. He was the recipient of the Third Region 2012 Kentucky Outstanding Civic Education Leadership Award for his work in career readiness and workforce development. He published his first book, People, The Real Business of Leadership, in 2010. Mr. Brandon Blake, RJSHS Ambassador Advisor, stated we want to say, “thank you”, to Mr. Baker for providing his time and expertise for our students. We were honored that he joined us to share his insights and time-tested, practical strategies for leadership and teamwork. Today was truly something special! Also, as a part of the conference, the James C. Milam Ambassador Service Award was presented to Ms. Johnea Pendleton. Johnea is a senior at Russellville Junior/Senior High School and was selected by her fellow Ambassadors to receive this prestigious award! The Ambassadors want to say a special, “thank you”, to the Russellville Independent School Board Members and Superintendent, Mr. Leon Smith, for their support. In addition, we are proud to be supported by our principal, Mrs. Kim McDaniel, and all the staff of Russellville Junior/Senior High School. Mr. Brandon Blake, RJSHS Ambassador Advisor, and Ms. Jessie Baker, Ambassador Co-Advisor, have both been essential with all their hard work, planning, and supporting this successful event. We are Panther Nation!