Building leaders starts with being one
Join the Lead4Change Fellowship
An exclusive, year-long experience designed to inspire, equip, and celebrate the nation’s most impactful educators
Apply nowWe believe educators have the most important job in the country.
The Lead4Change Fellowship is our way of honoring that work by pouring back into those who are making a lasting impact in the lives of student leaders.
Each year, a group of outstanding middle and high school educators are selected for a transformative, year-long journey of leadership growth, connection, and inspiration.
It’s more than professional development—it’s a community of innovators shaping the future of classrooms and student leadership.
As a 2025-2026 Fellow, you’ll get:
- ✈ An immersive Nashville retreat – 3 unforgettable days of learning, connection, and fun
- 💰$500 to elevate your classroom or club
- 🎓 Professional development credit (where applicable)
- 💻 Quarterly virtual meetings with your cohort
- 🤝 Exclusive educator network – a tight-knit, invite-only community of leaders
- 📚 Tailored learning content designed for Fellows
- 🗣 A voice in Lead4Change – help shape programs and resources
“I’m taking home so many new ideas—even after 15 years in education. This experience has renewed my passion for what I do.”
Ana Player
2025 Fellow, Texas
“(The Fellowship) has been completely different from what I expected. We’re bonding so quickly because everyone here gets it. My cup is full. I’m with my people.”
Jennifer Cunningham
2025 Fellow, Washington
“This is the best professional development experience I’ve ever been to. You’re not only learning and growing as an educator, but also as a leader.”
Jeanette Ruberto
2025 Fellow, Ohio
The retreat
Nashville, TN | June 23-25, 2026
The highlight of the Fellowship year—an energizing, all-expenses-paid experience designed to connect, inspire, and equip educators.
During the retreat, Fellows:
- Participate in interactive sessions on the latest in education and student leadership
- Share ideas with top educators from across the country
- Enjoy dinners, live music, and unforgettable activities in the heart of Music City
Meet the class of 2025
Tera Coleman
California • High School Business Educator
Jennifer Cunningham
Washington • High School Leadership Educator
Jamisen Henley
Kentucky • High School FACS Educator
Kate Horvath
North Carolina • Middle School Leadership Educator
Marissa Johnson
Georgia • Middle School Assistant Principal
Katie Mosher
Ohio • High School Culinary Instructor
Ana Player
Texas • High School Activities Director
Jeanette Ruberto
Ohio • High School Special Needs Educator
Shana Romano
Florida • Middle School Leadership Educator
Dr. Mohamed Smahi
Ohio • High School Principal
Dr. Latoya Thomas
Georgia • High School Computer Science Educator
Michael Toth
New York • Middle School Social Studies Educator
Tracey Waldeier
Kansas • District Wide Gifted Facilitator
Lauren Williams
Kentucky • High School FACS Educator
Past fellows in action
Wondering if the Fellowship is right for you?
You might be the right fit if you:
Lead with passion and curiosity
Want to grow as a leader and mentor
Believe students can change the world
Have taught the Lead4Change curriculum in your class or club
Are ready to invest in yourself, not just your students
Eligibility Requirements:
At least one full year of classroom teaching experience
Middle or high school educator, administrator, or club adviser
U.S. resident currently working in a school
Availability to attend the retreat in Nashville (June 23-25, 2026)
Willingness to participate in quarterly virtual meetings and publicly represent Lead4Change