08/21/2026
A group of Hardeman County young ladies had a special opportunity to attend a mentorship initiative, gain skills and valuable knowledge in areas for personal success. This opportunity was created, organized, and provided by Judge Harriet S. Thompson. Judge Thompson put together a 4-week lunch and learn series for participants that included professional women who graciously volunteered their time to serve as lunch and learn presenters and mentors to young ladies.
The Lunch and Learn program focused on the following topics: Socially You, Career You, Healthy You, and Financially You. Numerous professional women within the community attended each session and presented information on their area of expertise while engaging socially with the young ladies and even facilitated mock job interviews.
The 4-week program concluded with a lovely "Graduation Tea Party" which took place at the Columns of Bolivar. Volunteers provided various "Sweet" and "Savory" dishes for the celebration; while Ken Kowen did a presentation on a "High Tea" and Ashley Bishop did a presentation on floral arranging. Graduation certificates were presented by Judge Thompson, assisted by Mayor McTizic and Mayor Pulse.
Special Appreciation is extended to the following Volunteers who were an integral part of the success of the program:
Lily Dorris Barnes, Ashley Bishop, Janice Bodiford, Regina Brotherton, Michelle Butgess, Lori Cox, Barbara Marchbanks Gammel, Monica Goodman, Candice Gray, Eunice Gudger, Cecilia Clifft Hadley, Sandy Hammons, Sylvia Harris, Dylan Hill, Angenal Huddleston, Ken Kenneth E. Kowen, Amanda Hopkins Lewis , Linda McKinnie, Melissa McTizic, Bethany Miller, Lora Green Moore, Sharon Murden, Lisa Nelms, Kim Paras, Emily Thompson Parks, Lisa Raines, Suzanne Garrett Rhea, Barbara Rice, Megan Crouch Roberts, Opal Shaw, Sherrie D. Shelby, Dixie Spencer, Janet Stallings , Kandis Stevens, Vickie Walton, Carla Latham Wilhite, Kendra Williams, Karen Woods, Linda Woods, Candace Woody, Dr. Mary Yarbrough, and Andrea Young.
