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Our Impact

Every Student Can Be Inspired to Lead

21st Century Leaders has welcomed and inspired thousands of high school students, truly reflecting the state’s diversity, hailing from urban and rural settings, and representing a range of religious, social, economic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds.  

High school often represents the final opportunity to select your peers and determine your social circle. We firmly believe that providing students with more opportunities to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and varied life experiences will better equip them for success while nurturing an understanding and appreciation for diversity, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging.

1,600+

high school students served annually

85%

of students identify as persons of color

50+%

of students face barriers to success

60%

of students identify as female

Our Results

Our Programs Change Lives

Here are just a few impactful statements around building self-efficacy and confidence, transforming skill-sets, and gaining access to opportunities.

Leadership Development

100%

of students said they now see themselves as leaders as a result of our programs

94%

of students said they took on one or more new leadership roles after joining 21st Century Leaders

Career Readiness

95%

of students said they are clearer on knowing their career path after high school as a result of 21st Century Leaders, while 55% of students said they discovered a new career field they're now interested in pursuing

80%

of students said they grew and developed in our core leadership competencies

Inclusion

45%

of students said it was their first time seeing someone who looks like them in a career or position they want to be in

30%

of students said it was their first time interacting with peers outside of their geographic area

Reports

Our students are more than just impact numbers.
They are young people discovering who they are and who they want to be.

Our reports provide an in-depth look of how our programs are doing just that through powerful student testimonials and the partners who support us.

Our Success Stories

Sharing the success stories of our organization and alumni is crucial in demonstrating the significant impact our programs have had, showcasing tangible results, and illustrating how special 21st Century Leaders is and continues to be.

35th Anniversary -Jasmine Bradley
April 25, 2024
Programs like 21CL are important because they prepare students to position themselves as leaders early enough and before they enter their careers and industries
Katherine Bryant
April 18, 2024
21CL emphasized the joy of connecting for a common goal and building relationships that can serve a community beyond oneself.
35th Anniversary - Mark Lindemann
April 11, 2024
21CL helped me develop a highly collaborative leadership style. I always solicit input from numerous stakeholders to create a cooperative work environment and help maintain engagement.

Audits

We firmly believe in being accountable to you, our community, and the public at large. Independent audits are conducted by a reputable and impartial third-party firm, and the results are available here to all our stakeholders and the general public.

In the News

Alumni Spotlight: Jasmine Tillman

Programs like 21CL are important because they prepare students to position themselves as leaders early enough and before they enter...

Alumni Spotlight: Katherine Bryant

21CL emphasized the joy of connecting for a common goal and building relationships that can serve a community beyond oneself.

Alumni Spotlight: Mark Lindemann

21CL helped me develop a highly collaborative leadership style. I always solicit input from numerous stakeholders to create a cooperative...