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 components of leadership. The
military structure of Valley Forge provides extraordinary opportunities for the student to
develop and exercise their leadership abilities in a safe environment. Leadership Opportunities
All cadets at the Forge 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, the Student Advisory Council, and Dean's Council, and
other campus committees.
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. Leadership qualities are fostered by this
military structure, which seeks to:
- Develop cadets' self-confidence, dignity and respect for others
- Help cadets gain high standards of military conduct, appearance,
fitness and
discipline
- Generate pride by inducing habits of neatness, order,
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.
Personal
Motivation
Along with leadership, Valley Forge stresses personal motivation in all areas of life.
Within the Academy, 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 Corps of
Cadets (42%) is involved in leadership positions of sergeant or higher.
