Mission:

The mission of the Frances Hesselbein Student Leadership Program™ (FHSLP) is to grow and sustain the Student 2 Student® (S2S™) Program on the local campus. Established by Military Child Education Coalition in 2006, the Frances Hesselbein Student Leadership Program offers an intensive experience for selected students to enrich their leadership and team-building skills.

The week-long, intensive experience builds skills through personal and small group settings. Students gain confidence, competence, and commitment to their leadership to build their local S2S program. 

Students also have an opportunity to share their program challenges and successes with other peers to gain a new insight on improvement. Distinguished guests provide insights to overcoming challenges and to building personal character.

Spring FHSLP at USAF Academy, Colorado Springs

The scholarship window is now open!

MCEC’s spring Frances Hesselbein Student Leadership Program is February 20-24, 2024 at the United States Air Force Academy Colorado Springs, Colorado. Applications and recommendations are due by Friday, December 15.

Open to military- and veteran-connected, and civilian Student 2 Student members. Be sure to discuss this incredible leadership opportunity and encourage students to apply for a scholarship to this life-changing training.

To be eligible, candidates must be active in their S2S program, a high school sophomore or junior, in good academic standing, and able to travel to Colorado Springs, CO for the full dates of the program.

Students should see their S2S sponsor for application information. Student interviews will be held in January.

Congratulations once again to these ten exceptional students who attended the MCEC’s Fall 2023 Frances Hesselbein Student Leadership Program (FHSLP) at the United States Military Academy at West Point, October 23-27, 2023.

The Fall 2023 class of students represented five states and Italy:

- Destiny P. from Killeen High School (Killeen, TX)
- Emma D. from Leavenworth High School (Leavenworth, KS)
- Finn M. from Union Pines High School (Cameron, NC)
- Jacob S. from Bob Jones High School (Madison, AL)
- Jayla H. from Crossroads High School (Copperas Cove, TX)
- Kiani S. from Daleville High School (Daleville, AL)
- Matthew K. from Granby High School (Norfolk, VA)
- Natalie S. from James Madison High School (San Antonio, TX)
- Nicholas V. from Sigonella Middle High School (Sigonella, Italy)
- Olivia K. from Pinecrest High School (Pinecrest, NC)

Throughout the week, students participated in team building exercises, met inspirational speakers, absorbed a wealth of knowledge, made life-long friendships, and even celebrated a birthday! The jam-packed schedule touched on effective communication, physical and mental health, goal setting, mentorship practices, character building, and the importance of reflection. Activities and lessons were provided by West Point personnel and cadets, the American Red Cross, and the Military Child Education Coalition.

“I was able to build my leadership skills during the week while making relationships that will last a lifetime. It was a truly transformative event that I will always remember and be extremely grateful for.”

Jacob, Madison, AL