By JUSTIN SMITH | The Selma Times-Journal

Selma’s Mason Kendrick was one of 25 seniors who earned the opportunity to participate in the first Huntington College Economic and Community Development Scholars program.

Kendrick is a rising senior at Meadowview Christian High School.

Huntington College partnered with The Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama, the Economic Development Association of Alabama and the Alabama Department of Commerce to put on the program from June 12-14.

“We were excited to have 25 of Alabama’s brightest lights on campus,” Huntingdon senior vice president Anthony Leigh said in a press release.

The goal of the program was to introduce the participants to the economic and community development process and engage them in considering the field as a profession.

Chambers of commerce from across the state of Alabama were invited to nominate a senior to participate in the program.

The participants toured the Alabama State Capitol, a manufacturing plant and saw revitalization that has taken place in downtown Montgomery.

The seniors went through economic development simulations and networked with economic professionals.

All of the participants had the chance to meet with Gov. Kay Ivey and other state officials.

The program concluded with a graduation.

The sponsoring chamber of commerce paid for their nominee’s room and board and other costs totaling $250.

The participants stayed in campus residence halls, with meals and lodging all included. There was no cost to the students.

“These students have returned to their communities enlightened about what economic and community developers do, and we hope that knowledge has given them an appreciation for the work of growing and bettering our communities and our state,” Leigh stated.