LEAD Forward Bringing the Summer Heat
NEWS UPDATE
A Worthy Send-Off for the Class of 2026. On June 4th, LEAD Forward celebrated the 7th graduating cohort with our annual Senior Banquet. The Class of 2026 is our largest to date, with 15 students being honored. It was an inspirational evening reflecting on the legacy of growth, team, commitment, and impact that the Class of 2026 leaves behind. We look forward to seeing what the next steps in life will bring for these graduates!
The Class of 2030 Enters Stage Right! On July 6th, the newest cohort of LEAD students began their journey. LEAD Forward’s Freshmen Academy is a 4 week, 12 day intensive onboarding for our rising 9th graders. Students get the opportunity to bond with their peers, hear stories from former graduates, and cut their teeth serving the community through our Giving Kitchen. The future is looking bright this summer!
LEAD Serves Up a New Pool! The entrepreneurship piece of the LEAD Forward experience takes center stage during the summer, and this summer, market expansion is the name of the game. After two successful years running concessions at Rama Swim Club, LEAD was invited to open the Gator Grille at FoxCroft East Swim Club. It is double the responsibility, but also the double the fun for the 15 or so students who manage LEAD’s most successful small business.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
First Day of School, Monday, August 24th.
LEAD kicks off another year full of exciting programming on Day 1 of the school year.
Cars and Coffee, October 2026.
The rising Junior cohort is planning a car meet as a fundraiser in the Fall. Be on the lookout for dates and times in the coming weeks.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT:
Graeme Williams, Class of 2026
Graeme was voted Mr. LEAD and Class MVP by his peers this year. Joining LEAD late in his sophomore year, Graeme made up for lost time, as he worked on overcoming a lack of confidence to become one of the most influential voices in his cohort. As he prepares to begin his post-secondary studies at App State, Graeme leaves a legacy of humility and leadership behind.
HOW TO HELP!
GIVE: LEAD Forward is growing. Enrollment is at a record level and our programming continues to exceed expectations. We are actively fundraising and would love to partner with your financially. Visit our website to donate or contact us to find out more about giving.
PARTNER: A new school year is around the corner and LEAD Forward wants to partner with you. Whether you own a business or simply want to help mentor and guide the next generation, there is a place for you at LEAD. It can be a weekly commitment, or a one time speaking engagement. Reach out today and let’s start the conversation!
EVENT DATES:
CARS and COFFEE, October 2026, Cokesbury United Methodist Church
