Winners Announced For 10th Annual West Alabama Young Leaders Awards

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Six community leaders will be recognized for their service and impact across the region during the 10th anniversary of the West Alabama Young Leaders Awards.

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The annual awards, often referred to as the WAYLAs, honor individuals whose leadership, dedication and community involvement have made a lasting difference in West Alabama.

Organizers said the honorees exemplify the passion and commitment that have defined the program since its inception a decade ago.

The recipients will be formally recognized during an awards ceremony luncheon on Monday, Feb. 23.

The 2026 West Alabama Young Leaders Award recipients

• Hank Poore, The Hank Poore Foundation
• Jonna Martin, Alabama Credit Union
• André Taylor, The University of Alabama
• Leah Pearson Banks, Alabama Power
• Daniel Bradshaw, Tuscaloosa Association of Realtors
• Chelsey Hunt Henthorn, Bryant Bank

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