Student Leadership Johns Creek (SLJC) celebrated a significant milestone on Wednesday, April 16, at Innovation Academy, graduating its final class of 108 student leaders before transitioning to a new regional identity as Student Leadership NORTH.
After 13 successful years of cultivating young leaders in the Johns Creek community, the program has evolved to extend its reach across the northern region. The final SLJC graduation ceremony marked the culmination of a legacy that began with just 25 students in its inaugural class and grew to impact hundreds of future leaders.
Former Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker, who presided over the program's first graduation, returned to lead the final ceremony under the Johns Creek name, bringing the program's journey full circle. Fulton County School Board President Kristin McCabe addressed the graduates, highlighting the exceptional opportunities the program has provided to students over the years.
Throughout its history, the two-year leadership program has facilitated over 60 community service projects primarily benefiting Johns Creek residents. The program's success is evident in the impressive achievements of its alumni:
- 17% of SLJC graduates have attended Ivy League schools
- 93% have attended top 50 colleges nationwide
- 100% have attended top 100 colleges
The career trajectories of SLJC alumni further demonstrate the program's influence:
- 84 graduates currently work in technology, including positions at industry leaders like Disney, Meta, and Google
- 44 have pursued careers in medicine
- 36 serve in law and government
- 30 have entered the finance sector
- 25 work with prominent consulting firms including McKinsey and EY
- 19 have launched careers in fashion, sports, and media
The program has also produced two Fulbright Scholars, two Stamps Scholars, several Rhodes Scholars, and numerous entrepreneurs and the alumni contributions continue to grow each year.
A highlight of this year's ceremony was the presentation of the inaugural Homer Rice Perseverance Award, established in memory of the legendary Georgia Tech football coach and athletic director who passed away in 2024. Aryun Singh from Northview High School received this honor for his dedication to seeing his team complete their community service project despite numerous obstacles. Sophie Lin from Chattahoochee High School was awarded the Michael E. Bodker Leadership Award, while Esha Sajjan from Johns Creek High School received the Marilyn Margolis Leadership Award.
"While we're concluding the SLJC chapter, we're excited about the broader impact Student Leadership NORTH will have," said Executive Director Irene Sanders. "The 2025-26 academic year will mark two exciting developments: welcoming Alpharetta High School to our program and launching our inaugural one-year Rising Leaders program."
The expansion to include Alpharetta High School represents a significant step in the organization's transition from a city-focused initiative to a regional leadership development program.
Sponsors
Student Leadership Johns Creek extends its deepest gratitude to Emory Johns Creek Hospital, which has served as the program's major sponsor since its inception 13 years ago. The program also acknowledges the generous financial support from Renasant Bank, VyStar Credit Union, The Rotary Club of Johns Creek, The Rotary Club of Johns Creek-North Fulton, The Baaga Family, Arthur and Erin Holst, Robyn Kanner Grant, Chris and Erin Jackson and Shafiq Javadji. Their contributions have been instrumental in the program's sustained success and growth.