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NexGen Eagles Leadership Academy

The 2025 GLOW Leadership Academy, hosted by Durham’s Hope for Kids, was a tremendous success, engaging 20 youth scholars in a dynamic summer experience focused on leadership, advocacy, and personal growth.

Building on that momentum, North Carolina Central University is partnering with Durham’s Hope for Kids to launch the NexGen Eagles Leadership Academy for Summer 2026. This expanded program will provide middle and high school students with an immersive leadership experience on NCCU’s campus, where participants will explore civic engagement, build confidence, and develop the skills needed to become leaders in their schools and communities.

Together, this partnership reflects a shared commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders while introducing youth to the opportunities and culture of an HBCU campus.

Save the Date for 2026!

Planning is already underway for the 2026 NexGen Eagles Leadership Academy, a collaborative initiative between North Carolina Central University and Durham’s Hope for Kids. Designed to develop and inspire the next generation of leaders, the program will take place in June 2026, following the conclusion of the Durham Public Schools academic year.

The registration is open now (April 14, 2026) and will close on May 16, 2026.

Dates: 6/16/2026-6/25/2026
Ages: 13-17
Prices range from $280.00 to $450.00 (price depends on options selected)

Registration

Thank you for your continued support of this impactful program and for your shared commitment to developing future leaders.

Date

Monday, June 15–Thursday, June 25, 2026

Time

8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday

Location

North Carolina Central University

Cost

$280 per week or $450 for 2 weeks (includes daily breakfast, lunch and snacks)

Eligibility

Rising 7th–12th graders

Capacity

Limited to the first 50 participants — register early!

What to Expect

Leadership Development: Explore leadership, advocacy, and civic engagement while learning how to make a positive impact in your community.

Inspiring Guest Speakers: Hear from community leaders, professionals, and educators who are passionate about empowering the next generation.

College Exposure: Experience the energy of North Carolina Central University and learn about college pathways and future career opportunities.

Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on sessions focused on teamwork, confidence building, communication, and problem-solving.

Team Challenges and Activities: Engage in fun group challenges that strengthen wellness, collaboration, creativity, and leadership skills.

Capstone Experience: Conclude the academy by sharing a project or presentation that reflects what you’ve learned throughout the program.

Why NexGen Eagles Leadership Academy?

This immersive leadership experience introduces scholars to the foundations of leadership, civic engagement, and community impact in a way that is engaging, fun, and inspiring. Through weekly themes, team challenges, daily yoga, and interactive activities, participants build confidence, strengthen critical thinking, and develop public speaking skills. Whether you aspire to lead in your school, community, or future career, this academy is designed to help young leaders grow and thrive.