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LEADERSHIP
At Valley Forge, we believe learning to lead first involves learning to follow. By earning
the confidence of others as a follower, cadets learn the building
blocks toward leadership. The
military school structure of Valley Forge provides extraordinary opportunities for the student to
develop and exercise leadership abilities in a safe environment.
Military System
Within a military system, there are no surprises. Cadets learn the rules and expectations
and the rewards and punishments that accompany them. It's a structured system that shapes
the way cadets live and learn at the Forge. Leadership qualities are fostered by this
military school structure, which seeks to:
- Help cadets attain high standards of appearance, fitness, conduct,
discipline, and military bearing;
- Develop cadets' self-confidence, dignity, and respect for others;
- Create cadet pride by acquiring habits of neatness, orderliness, punctuality, and
self-control;
- Encourage cadets to think in terms of groups rather than individuals;
- Teach cadets to conform with principles and practices of good leadership.
 Corps of Cadets
The Corps of Cadets is largely student-governed, but supervised by Valley Forge
administrators. Leadership positions within the Corps are earned over time; students with
potential for leadership positions in the Corps of Cadets are invited to return early each
year to participate in Leadership Detail Training. Within the Corps, cadet leadership and
positive peer pressure helps foster brotherhood and camaraderie among all students.
Leadership Opportunities
The College's cadets are appointed to major command positions in the Corps. The first
captain is generally a sophomore in the College. All cadets realize vast opportunities to
exercise leadership - on the athletic field, in extracurricular activities, through
service efforts, in the classroom, and through the Corps of Cadets,
Army ROTC, the Student Advisory
Council, and Dean's Council, and other campus committees.
Personal Motivation
Along with leadership, Valley Forge stresses personal motivation in all areas of life.
Within the College, we seek to motivate young men who strive for excellence as individuals
and members of a group. Motivation is encouraged through positive competition,
recognition, loyalty, teamwork, organizational pride, and the setting of personal goals.
FORGE FACTS
Leadership is something we take seriously at Valley Forge. Nearly half of our cadet corps
(42%) is involved in leadership positions of sergeant or higher.
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