Program Officer Brynn Fann graduates from 2024 REDI Class

In December, Golden LEAF Program Officer and A/V Tech Coordinator, Brynn Fann graduated from the Rural Economic Development Institute, REDI. REDI is the NC Rural Center’s flagship leadership development program. This three-month leadership training prepares existing and emerging leaders with tools needed to approach economic and community development issues amongst rural North Carolina.

“I applied for REDI to obtain a certification and increase my knowledge on management practices found within rural initiatives,” said Fann. “After joining the program, I realized REDI offered so much more.”

Golden LEAF launches new websites

The Golden LEAF Foundation has launched new websites to reflect its new branding, increase engagement, and provide a more user-friendly experience: Golden LEAF Foundation and Golden LEAF Scholarship websites.

This launch was in conjunction with Golden LEAF’s 25th Anniversary.

Application for Golden LEAF Colleges and Universities Scholarship now available

The Golden LEAF Colleges and Universities Scholarship application for the 2025-2026 academic year is now available at CFNC.org. A total of 215 awards will be offered to first-time recipients from qualifying counties. Applications are due March 1, 2025.

The awards are valued at $14,000 ($3,500 per year for up to four years) for North Carolina high school students attending a participating North Carolina college or university. North Carolina community college transfer students can receive up to $10,500 ($3,500 per year for up to three years).

Critical Conversations with Scott T. Hamilton featuring Interim Chair of Economics at North Carolina Agriculture and Technical State University Dr. Alfredo Romero

Recently, Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton sat down with Dr. Alfredo Romero, Interim Chair of Economics at North Carolina Agriculture and Technical State University, via Zoom and filmed an episode of Critical Conversations. In this series, Scott talks with professionals about economic development issues affecting the state.

2024 Year in Review

The Golden LEAF Foundation celebrated its 25th Anniversary this year with a new brand rollout, new website, and a celebration in conjunction with the annual Board meeting.

Critical Conversations with Scott T. Hamilton featuring John Hardin

Recently, Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton sat down with John Hardin, Executive Director of the North Carolina Office of Science, Technology, and Innovation in the NC Department of Commerce, via Zoom and filmed an episode of Critical Conversations. In this series, Scott talks with professionals about economic development issues affecting the state.

Critical Conversations with Scott T. Hamilton featuring Katie Loovis, Executive Director of the North Carolina Community Colleges Foundation

Recently, Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton sat down with Katie Loovis Executive Director of the North Carolina Community Colleges Foundation via Zoom and filmed an episode of Critical Conversations. In this series, Scott talks with professionals about economic development issues affecting the state.