Academics

Leadership Program

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Learning Leadership through real-world partnerships

This unique credentialing and diploma endorsement opportunity is the first of its kind among Richmond-area independent schools. The Leadership Program combines hands-on learning with academic studies, enabling participants to become more effective leaders.

Leadership focus areas:

Group Dynamics and Conflict Resolution
Global Engagement
Social Justice

Since the program completes at the end of junior year, students are able to more confidently and effectively step into leadership roles in their senior year at Steward and in adulthood. They can reference their work and successful completion of the program on their college applications.

Program Details

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Program Structure: Freshman and Sophomore Years

These years focus on cohort-based work in leadership studies, with a focus on the following themes:

Year 1: introduction to leadership, group dynamics, and conflict resolution
Year 2: global engagement, social justice

Program participants meet in-person twice per marking period for an extended lunch period for activities, discussions, and guest speakers, or for off-campus field trips/opportunities. In between meetings, participants are required to participate in online asynchronous assignments and discussions.
Program Structure: Junior Year

Capstone project: Individuals identify an issue or challenge at Steward and/ or in the greater Richmond community. Each student designs a project that uses the leadership skills they’ve learned over the course of the program to find solutions and enact change. They present their findings and conclusions to members of the Steward community.
How to Apply

Applications are available at the start of each school year. Applicants who best demonstrate excellence in multiple areas of school life and a desire for leadership opportunities within the community are prioritized for acceptance. Debbie Robson Merit Scholars and Impact Scholars will automatically be invited to join the Leadership Program. Both freshmen and sophomores may apply for the program. Contact Program Coordinator Eliza McGehee or Assistant Program Coordinator Scottie O'Neill for more information.

Eliza McGehee

Eliza McGehee

“Through hands-on experiences, students reflect on their own leadership styles and collaborate with peers to explore ideas that can have a positive social impact. Leadership is a nuanced set of skills, and our students learn to become effective, empathetic leaders and change-makers.”

- Eliza McGehee, Leadership Program Coordinator