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W&M Leadership for Change Academy Handbook

The W&M Leadership for Change Academy (W&M LCA) is an immersive program empowering young leaders through leadership development, debate, and history. Rooted in William & Mary’s tradition of civic engagement and academic excellence, the academy invites students to explore how leadership has shaped key moments in history—and how those lessons can inspire meaningful change today.

  • A one-week residential program held on the William & Mary campus for rising 9th-11th graders, June 28th-July 5th.
  • Designed to help students discover their leadership skills & talents and ensure they have access to advanced instruction and resources that support their success.

This program is built around three academic pillars:

  1. Leadership Development & Growth

    Identifying emerging student leadership strengths and nurturing them through meaningful challenges, guided practice, and opportunities to lead with purpose and confidence.
  2. Rigorous & Engaging Learning

    Providing advanced coursework led by expert instructors, combining deep academic inquiry with hands-on experiences.
  3. Community & Lifelong Growth

    Building an inclusive environment where gifted students connect with peers, expand their knowledge, and cultivate skills for future academic and personal success.

W&M Leadership for Change Academy Handbook (PDF)