MONTGOMERY — A local organizational leader has been named to a statewide program to invoke positive change.

Johnathon Herston, executive director of Circle of Care Center for Families in Valley, is part of the 2019-2020 class of the Alabama Leadership Initiative.

According to a news release from the program, in 1995, Leadership Alabama introduced the program for emerging leaders to complement its existing leadership network.

The two-day program brought together young leaders from across the state to participate in a microcosm of the Leadership Alabama program year.

The program was expanded in 2017 to a six-month program comprised of three two-day retreats to offer young professionals the opportunity to develop leadership skills and establish ongoing relationships with others.

Herston told the Valley Times-News Thursday that he was honored to be nominated and accepted for the opportunity to work with the initiative.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to work with others from across the state to look at ways to bring about a bright future for Alabama,” he said. “From what I hear, this is going to be an amazing experience. I can’t wait to see what all I learn, how I will get to grow, and how I will be able to use this experience to the benefit of our area.”

Program Director Ashley Whatley said the program gives its participants a chance to see challenges the state is facing.

“The initiative exposes young leaders to the decision-makers in Alabama who are sensitive to the challenges we face as a state, and it provides the participants with the unique opportunity to step inside the circle of decision-makers and problem-solvers who mold the future of our state,” she said in a news release.

According to Leadership Alabama Executive Director Kate Cotton, the program has three goals — education, connections and personal development.