Students at Notre Dame Academy are growing as leaders through the Notre Dame Leadership Academy (NDLA). 

A club open to all students, members focus on developing their leadership skills, strengthening their values, and growing in confidence, all factors needed to make a positive impact both in school and in their futures. 

“NDLA’s mission is to create and support leaders who have the skills, attributes, and virtues to benefit the Notre Dame Academy community and communities beyond,” explained NDLA adviser and NDA teacher, Mrs. Jaime Danen.

Students involved in NDLA meet during their lunch periods where they work on their skills, build connections and learn how to support their community. 

One of NDLA’s biggest events of the school year is the Middle School Leadership Conference. This year was its sixth year. 

The conference brought over 100 middle schoolers to St. Norbert College for a day full of activities spotlighting leadership. NDLA members plan, organize, and of course lead, the entire event. 

The skills needed to oversee such an event are developed during their meetings. This conference helps both the middle school students and the members of NDLA. 

“This conference is a chance to highlight leadership skills leader throughout the year and to help those middle school students become stronger leaders,” said Danen.

This year, nine students coordinated the conference. They showed teamwork and responsibility in a real world event, fulfilling NDLA’s goals.

“ I am honored to be able to be a part of the community of leaders who are NDLA,” claimed Danen.

Going forward, there is hope for more in-house opportunities for NDLA and its members as well as hopes for new members next school year. Tritons are encouraged to look out for leadership opportunities starting this summer.

“NDLA has taught me how to be a better leader and how I can impact my community using my skills,” said junior Maddie Schuh.