Special to the Enquirer  

TUSCALOOSA – Two local students were recently chosen to participate in the Blackburn Institute at the University of Alabama. The organization is a leadership development and civic engagement program focused on improving Alabama. 

Only 50 students are chosen through a highly competitive process to be a part of the 2024 Blackburn class. 

Local students include Eli Moore and Samantha Simmons. Moore and Simmons are both 2023 graduates of Hartselle High School.  

Through its work with students, alumni (Fellows), and Advisory Board members, the institute develops a network of leaders who clearly understand the state’s challenges. Selected students participate in a common new student curriculum of activities and events, after which they continue their involvement as returning students for their remaining time at the Capstone. 

Upon graduation, participants earn recognition as Blackburn Fellows and begin their work through professional and civic involvement in their home communities and throughout the state, both individually and through the Fellows Involvement Network (FIN). Supported by an Advisory Board of established leaders committed to the state of Alabama, the Blackburn Institute promotes change through an intergenerational network that learns from the past, takes action in the present, and plans for the future.