In front of a large crowd last Tuesday evening, the East Georgia Concert Chorale (EGCC) performed “Hearts and Minds United in Song,” a benefit concert for the Lake Oconee Youth Alliance (LOYA) at Christ Our King and Savior Catholic Church.
The program was a celebration of American choral music and was sponsored by the women of Christ Our King and Savior Catholic Church. It was led by director Dr. Brian Williams, with his wife and accompanist, Dr. Jana Williams, playing piano and harp.
The music began with five songs before LOYA Board Chair Denine Hagen spoke about the work of the Lake Oconee Youth Alliance.
Jude Doredant, a 2024 Putnam County High School graduate who now attends Georgia College & State University, where he is an honors student with a double major in physics and math, and a minor in chemistry, as well as serving as a physics research assistant, also spoke to the audience about his background and experience with LOYA.
Music continued with Dr. Williams on harp playing “The Little Fountain,” by Samuel Pratt. The EGCC continued with four more songs before concluding with Dan Forrest’s “The Music of Living” to end the program.
“This was one of the most beautiful concerts this year, and how wonderful to have such a fabulous chorale here in our community,” attendee Noel Habernle stated.
The Lake Oconee Youth Alliance helps deserving students achieve their dreams. Since 2018, LOYA has awarded 80 scholarships, and as of May 2025, 30 scholarship students and 29 college assistance students have graduated. The college completion rate for LOYA scholars is 83.3% in 3.6 years, compared to a national average of 62% in six years.
To support LOYA in continuing to invest in future leaders of Georgia and beyond, send checks to Lake Oconee Youth Alliance, 6350 Lake Oconee Pkwy., Ste. 110 PMB 181, Greensboro, Ga. 30642, or donate online at lakeoconeeyouthalliance.com/support-loya.