Cultivating Everyday Leaders

Leadership is more than a title or a moment at the podium—it is demonstrated in how one shows up in the world. At MBA, students experience leadership in many forms: standing up for what’s right, setting an example for younger classmates, contributing meaningfully to their community, and more. Through a range of programs and everyday experiences, we guide boys to discover their own authentic leadership. Along the way, they develop the confidence, integrity, and compassion to influence others for good—values they will carry with them for a lifetime.
 

"Ultimately, we want the boys to become exceptional citizens, strong role models, and true leaders—positive individuals who serve as a steady presence for those around them, who face challenges with resilience and approach problems with confidence and creativity."

- Current faculty member and coach

Leadership Opportunities and Programs 

Foundations of Leadership

Foundations of Leadership is a unique program that empowers high school students to explore their leadership potential and develop personal and social responsibility through meaningful discussion, reflection, and real-world application. Meeting in a relaxed, community-oriented setting, students participate in engaging activities that connect leadership theory with practice. The program encourages self-awareness, purpose, and inclusivity while emphasizing collaboration and civic responsibility. Completion of at least four sessions is required for students interested in running for class office or holding positions in student council or service club leadership.

Elected Officers

MBA’s elected officers lead and serve their peers throughout the school year. Each month, elected high school officers take part in morning leadership meetings that combine leadership education with planning for upcoming class meetings. Officers attend a leadership retreat in early August to build skills and camaraderie. Freshman class officers also participate in an overnight retreat at Long Mountain. To be eligible for election, students must complete a candidacy speech and participate in the Foundations of Leadership program.

SYLO

The Sophomore Year Leadership Opportunity (SYLO) invites students to explore leadership through service and action. Sophomores work on collaborative projects, often focused on helping others and improving their community. SYLO challenges boys to step up, work together, and see firsthand the impact of their efforts.

Totomoi

Beginning spring of their junior year, students can apply to be considered for induction into Totomoi—MBA’s honor fraternity and longstanding tradition that recognizes individuals who have shown outstanding service to the student body and the school in three or more of the following fields: academics, athletics/debate, arts, service, student-government, and extra-and-co-curricular involvement. Induction into Totomoi is the highest honor an MBA student, alumnus, or faculty/staff member can receive. 

King Society

The King Society honors students who exemplify quiet, consistent leadership and a deep commitment to serving others, reflecting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s conviction that life’s most urgent question is what we are doing for others. Founded in 2003 by Edwin Conley ’04 and Ben Pote ’04, the society upholds Dr. King’s legacy through a shared pursuit of justice, equality, peace, and moral courage.

Membership is open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors, with up to ten students selected from each grade based on criteria outlined in the society’s charter. Students chosen for this honor are those who lead not for attention or accolades, but because it is the right thing to do.
 

Montgomery Bell International Symposium

The Montgomery Bell International Symposium challenges students to think globally and lead with insight and empathy. As the founding school of MBIS—a network of ten international member schools—MBA plays an active role in this unique global leadership experience.

Each year, one school hosts a week-long symposium centered on a global issue. Recent issues have included climate change, digital ethics, truth in the digital age, and the future of democracy. Senior students and faculty from across the network engage in discussions, attend guest lectures, and collaborate on a final accord that reflects their shared understanding and recommendations.

MBIS encourages students to broaden their perspectives, connect across cultures, and develop the skills to lead in an increasingly interconnected world.