The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership has launched its inaugural Junior Fellowship Program — a new initiative designed to cultivate character-driven leadership in high school students. The five-day leadership and service boot camp, held July 14–18, took place at St. John’s High School in Charleston County and brought together 27 students for an immersive experience grounded in the values of the Medal of Honor.
Leadership development with Medal of Honor recipients
The boot camp featured appearances and mentorship from two Medal of Honor recipients:
- Staff Sgt. Clinton L. Romesha (Operation Enduring Freedom)
- Master Sgt. Earl D. Plumlee (Operation Enduring Freedom)
Students participated in workshops, team-building activities and reflective exercises focused on courage, sacrifice, integrity and patriotism. The all day community service project and experience marked the beginning of a nine-month fellowship running from August 2025 through April 2026.
Applying leadership in real life
Throughout the school year, Junior Fellows will complete monthly leadership challenges, participate in virtual meetups, receive mentorship and lead community service projects that apply the program’s values in real-world settings.
“This fellowship is a transformative, hands-on learning experience that we believe will have a deep impact on everyone involved — the fellows as they discover the kind of leaders the world needs them to be, our Medal of Honor recipients as they help shape the next generation, and the broader community as it is strengthened by the power of values-based leadership in action,” said Justin Habash, the center’s senior vice president of leadership programs.
A partnership rooted in purpose
The initiative is part of a growing partnership between the Center for Leadership and Charleston County School District, with St. John’s High School serving as the first host site.
“This partnership is a powerful example of what can happen when we bring together education, character and community,” said Principal Jermaine Joyner. “We are honored to be the first host of this prestigious program and look forward to seeing the impact on our students and beyond.”
Looking ahead
The fellowship will culminate in April 2026 with a capstone presentation and community celebration, where fellows will share reflections on their leadership journey and the impact of their service.
Students have expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the program and have been inspired by the chance to meet living Medal of Honor recipients.
The Junior Fellowship Program reflects the Center’s belief that leadership is learned, lived and shared. As these students begin their journey, we remain committed to empowering the next generation of leaders through values-based education rooted in courage, character and civic responsibility.
Your support helps empower the next generation of leaders to live out the values of courage, integrity and service in their schools and communities. To learn more about the Center for Leadership’s education programs or how to get involved, please visit our Programs page.
