At United Way Community Schools' 3rd Annual Leadership Retreat, more than 225 student leaders from 17 schools showed us the answer.
Throughout the day, students challenged themselves through team-building activities, meaningful discussions, and leadership development opportunities. They heard inspiring messages from Kyra Taylor, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Erie's Black Wall Street, and Dorian Crosby, a third-grade teacher, former Gannon University National Champion wrestler, and motivational speaker. Together, the speakers encouraged students to believe in themselves, embrace challenges, and recognize the impact they can have on those around them. Students stepped outside their comfort zones and discovered new confidence in themselves and one another.
The overall message was simple but powerful...
- Good leaders listen because they want others to be heard.
- Kindness and respect matter.
- Leadership isn't about being the loudest person in the room.
Leadership is about showing up for others, doing the right thing, and continuing to move forward even when nobody is watching.
Perhaps the most important lesson of all was this:
You do not have to wait until you're older to lead.
Leadership was visible throughout the retreat in students encouraging one another, working together to solve challenges, and finding the courage to share their voices. These moments may seem small, but they are exactly what leadership looks like.
The day concluded with an inspiring message from Erin Kerner, who encouraged students to continue believing in themselves, embracing opportunities, and recognizing the impact they can have on the people around them.
Thank you to our guest speakers, Women United volunteers, Erie High student leaders, Penn State Behrend, United Way Community School Directors, and school staff for helping create a day where students felt empowered to grow.
The future is bright because these young leaders are already making a difference today. Their voices filled the room, and their leadership will continue to make an impact long after the retreat ended.
