Defining Leadership at USM

A committee of faculty and administrators recently unveiled the “Portrait of a USM Leader” statement, which they developed over several months, and which defines leadership USM.

At USM, leadership is an opportunity for all students. Developing leadership skills requires intentional support, and USM ensures students are provided with the tools, mentorship, and experiences necessary to thrive in diverse leadership roles. Throughout their journey at USM, students discover their unique strengths, gaining confidence and the ability to drive meaningful change in classrooms 
and communities.

Unveiled recently, the “Portrait of a USM Leader” statement comprehensively defines what students in Preschool, Lower School, Middle School and Upper School learn, practice, and experience in regards to leadership. It was developed as part of the school’s strategic plan, and follows the “Portrait of a USM Citizen” statement, released in 2023. 

A dedicated committee of faculty and administrators crafted this second statement, building on nearly a decade of USM’s work in ethical leadership, rooted in empathy, courage, and integrity. “At USM, we are guided by the belief that every student can lead,” said Emily Ihrke, Middle School teacher, director of USM’s Ethical Leadership Program and committee chair. “This understanding informs how we integrate leadership development into academic, co-curricular, and community experiences from Preschool through Upper School. Our commitment motivates us to continually refine programs, seek out new mentorship opportunities, and stay at the leading edge of teaching practices that empower students to inspire change and make a meaningful impact.”

USM wishes to thank the members of the school’s “Portrait of a USM Leader” committee: Amber Bakkum, Upper School Science Teacher; Mark Edwards, Upper School drama teacher; Mike Engroff, 2nd grade teacher; Shanee McCoy, director of inclusion; Erica Melick, 1st grade teacher; Amy Norman, 6th grade English teacher; and Hannah Reimer, 5th grade world cultural geography teacher.

The full statement, along with division-specific features, can be viewed online at www.usmtoday.org/leader.