BAY MINETTE, Alabama — Bay Minette Middle School held a promotion ceremony to honor five students who have completed benchmarks in the inaugural Young Men’s Professional Organization.

BMMS teacher Matthew Craig started this group this school year to provide leadership training and instruction in soft skills to young men on campus.

During its first semester, members were taught table etiquette, participated in mock interviews and discussed leadership skills and perseverance with Army personnel. The young men also had a formal sizing for blazers and shirts, learned the appropriate way to shake hands and how to hold a professional conversation.

Some of the benchmarks that members strive toward include a dress code, social etiquette, class participation, leadership and being respectful, among many others.

During the ceremony, those who reached the benchmark for promotion were presented custom-made bowties, certificates and a new job title. They include: Mason Billiot, mentor; TyQuan Fields, assistant manager; Benjamin Palmer, manager; Keyon Palmer, mentor; and Cary Plummer, supervisor.

“These gentlemen represent tomorrow’s leaders,” Craig said. “They are making great strides toward success.”

Sponsors include: The Young Professionals of the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, Neal and Tina Covington, JP Services/Jan Paul, The Bailey Group/Patty Bailey, Gabriel and Jaclyn Boatright.