Read time:
With certificates, photos and applause, Christopher Newport University and the Virginia Peninsula Chamber honored the inaugural LEAD Higher graduating class.
Twenty-six students, including three CNU staff members, made up the graduating class who completed a rigorous 12-month advanced program designed to cultivate and enhance leadership skills among emerging leaders in Hampton Roads.
The students met one day per month to master a specific leadership principle. The instructors included business leaders and experts from CNU’s President’s Leadership Program and Department of Leadership and American Studies.
“It is my honor to offer sincere congratulations to the 26 graduates of LEAD Higher,” said President William G. Kelly in the keynote address at the graduation ceremony. “This was no walk in the park. You met often. You worked hard. You listened, you collaborated, and you grew—both as individuals and as leaders in this community.”
In his remarks, Chamber President/CEO Bob McKenna offered words in the spirit of Saint Francis Xavier: “True leadership is found in going out, serving others, and bringing hope wherever you go. Today, we celebrate you as leaders who will do just that—taking what you’ve learned here and making a difference far beyond this campus.”
The CNU staff members in the graduating class included Davon Barton of the Luter School of Business, Cami Castleberry of the Wason Center for Civic Leadership, and Emily Dugan of the Office of Communications and Public Relations.
All of the graduates will receive a micro-certification, symbolizing their commitment to leadership excellence and continued professional development. Building on the successful start of the program, the next class of LEAD Higher has already formed with 28 students enrolled. For information about the program and future classes, visit virginiapeninsulachamber.com.