When Meadowbrook Mall Chick-fil-a Owner Ryan Rutt decided to launch a partnership with Bridgeport High School through the company’s Leader Academy, he sought a group of students who were dedicated to community service and making a difference.  The Bridgeport High School DECA organization fit the bill perfectly as they have been recognized on the local, state and national level for their community service efforts.

 

In conjunction with the Chick-fil-a company values, the Leader Academy is a series of impactful lessons focusing on servant leadership, teamwork, innovation, communication, goal-setting and creating a vision that can benefit the community.  The student-led program revolves around projects using a unique curriculum technology that creates a ripple effect in the service area.  While the leadership group is limited to 30 participants, the projects are designed to involve the entire school, impacting the surrounding community.  The program is fully funded by Chick-fil-a, including the annual $4000 per school tuition.

 

Unlike many programs, the Chick-fil-a Leader Academy engages students in inspiring storytelling and technology to help them re-imagine leadership.  The monthly lessons highlight ways to make a difference at the school, local, community and state level, rewarding innovation and critical thinking along the way.  The approach empowers students to put their ideas into action and gives them concrete methods for developing their leadership skills.

 

The group of 30 students launched their partnership on Wednesday, October 2, with a bowling party at Compton Lanes in Clarksburg.  The opening ceremony included an overview of Chick-fil-a values, introductions and ice-breakers, and the implementation of the first lesson on famous and impactful leaders.  Students then enjoyed Chick-fil-a food, provided by Rutt, and bowled for nearly two hours.

 

“This was a great opportunity to get to know other students in a casual setting and to get to network with a local businessman who is dedicated to making a difference in the community,” said WV State DECA President Alden Smith.  “Activities such as these help us develop professionalism and allow us to be creative in our plans for serving Harrison County.”

 

The Chick-fil-a Leader Team will continue to meet throughout the year and work through the online lessons as well as in-person events.  They hope to intensify their leadership potential through the program and to celebrate the diversity among leaders in our area.