By Krystle J Bailey
Local Luminaries is a monthly series created in 2019 to shine light on local community members making a difference. The Leadership Studio sponsored event is hosted by Christian Correa and features a different topic of discussion along with new panel members every month. From topics such as careers in the arts to addiction and recovery, local luminaries provide a platform for community members to discuss the hard topics in a safe environment.
“Local Luminaries was a diverse panel of inspiring individuals who each shared experiences that made everyone in attendance think, laugh, and even cry,” explains Randi Meekins, local artist and Local Luminaries attendee.
The idea for Local Luminaries was inspired by a college program that invited students to travel to new locations, interviewing people about their lives and what inspires them. Correa, who was a participant in that colllege program, aims to flip that concept on its head by bringing inspiring people together in one room.
“When you live here, your role models don’t necessarily live here,” explains Correa. “It’s easy to notice the athletes and rockstars but people in the community are doing meaningful things and important work for our community.”
Local Luminaries puts the spotlight on those people. The Leadership Studio on Tennessee Avenue in Atlantic City is home to the monthly panel, along with several other community-focused programs including yoga for recovery and programs for moms and babies. The Leadership Studio exists with an intention to advance the physical, energetic, economic, and spiritual growth of Atlantic City’s residents through programming and partnerships.The Local Luminaries series is a significant contribution to that mission, offering an opportunity for education, growth, and expansion in our community.
“I want people who are in the area to be able to go somewhere where they can learn,” shares Correa about the Local Luminaries discussion panels.
This month’s topic focused on Community Development Corporations or CDCs. These local, neighborhood driven organizations offer opportunities for economic development, social services, community safety, and civic pride. The CDC panel on May 25th invited leaders from the four Atlantic City CDC’s to come together in order to inform, educate, and inspire. Panel members included Elizabeth Terenick (Chelsea CDC), Michael Cagno (Duckdown CDC), Victor Moreno (Inlet CDC), and Jim Rutala of Rutala Associates.
The evening centered on celebrating these individuals for their community efforts as well as educating attendees about CDCs, how they work, what they offer, and how to get involved.
On June 22nd, the next Local Luminaries event will take place at The Leadership Studio. Next month’s topic will center around healthy eating and food accessibility. Follow The Leadership Studio on social media for upcoming dates, times, panel members and information.
“There is so much media around Atlantic City that holds negative connotations without any willingness to jump in and fix things,” shares Correa. “But there are people doing their part. They’re doing the work, showing up, and creating opportunities that benefit the community. This is about those people.”
