James Cates Scholars
The James Cates Scholars program prepares young people to become thoughtful leaders, engaged citizens, and compassionate changemakers. We believe every student deserves to be challenged, supported, and held to high expectations. Through history, travel, research, oral history, leadership, and civic engagement, Scholars discover the confidence, skills, and sense of purpose to shape the future of their communities.
Preparing Tomorrow's Leaders
James Cates Scholars are trusted with real responsibility. From facilitating discussions to presenting research and leading community conversations, students develop the confidence to lead with knowledge, integrity, and purpose.
History is best understood by walking the places where it happened and learning directly from those who lived it. Through travel, historic sites, and conversations with movement veterans, Scholars connect the past to the challenges and opportunities of today.
Preserving
Local
Memory
Scholars learn to ask thoughtful questions, conduct oral histories, and preserve the stories that too often go untold. They discover that listening carefully is one of the most important ways to honor the past and strengthen the future.
Learning becomes meaningful when it is shared. Through public presentations, civic engagement, and community partnerships, Scholars use their knowledge and leadership to make a positive difference beyond the classroom
We believe young people are capable of far more than adults often imagine. When we hold them to high expectations, trust them with meaningful work, and surround them with caring mentors and communities, they rise to the challenge. The James Cates Scholars program challenges students to think critically, engage their communities, and recognize that their voices and ideas have the power to shape the future. Our program is built on that belief.