Unlocking Potential: Milton Hershey School Student Leaders Shine at Annual Leadership Conference
On Saturday, Nov. 16, more than 300 Milton Hershey School students gathered for the annual Student Government Association (SGA) Leadership Conference—a day designed to help student leaders Raise the Bar in their personal and professional growth. The event, led by the Senior Division SGA team, also included 50 Middle Division students eager to learn alongside them.
The experience opened with a video message from former U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, who commended the students for stepping up to tackle real-world challenges.
“Having the next generation of leaders step up with the skills, attitudes, and expertise needed to solve our most intractable problems is inspiring,” Duncan said.
2024 Alumnus of the Year Doug Oliver ’93 delivered the opening keynote speech, reflecting on his own leadership journey and the lessons he learned at MHS. Oliver shared a pivotal childhood moment shaped by the biblical verse Timothy 4:12.
“When I was nine, I learned a valuable lesson in my congregation’s children’s church: ‘Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers.’ Once I realized I could be that example and show more than I tell—I was set,” Oliver shared.
Encouraging students to seize every opportunity MHS offers, Oliver urged them to stay confident and embrace their potential: “Don’t let anyone despise your youth.”
Workshops and Leadership Lessons
Following the keynote, students chose from breakout sessions led by 17 presenters on topics related to the event’s theme, “Unlocking Potential.” Sessions included practical advice on leadership, teamwork, and creative problem-solving.
MHS Board of Managers Chairman Maria Kraus ’89 facilitated a workshop on developing essential leadership skills in high school, such as being a team player, independence, communication, accountability, and creativity. She also emphasized the value of exploring new experiences.
“High school is a time and place where you’re exposed to a wide variety of people and experiences. Try a lot of different things—I tried it all. Be a team player while doing so, and take advantage of the many opportunities MHS offers,” Kraus said.
Kraus also joined Oliver and fellow Board of Managers Co-Chair Diane Koken for a Q&A forum with the SGA leadership team. Students asked thought-provoking questions about life after graduation, strategies for success, and the skills needed to thrive in leadership roles.
Inspiration from Alumni
For many students, hearing directly from successful MHS alumni left a lasting impression.
“I learned the importance of having an entrepreneurial spirit and how crucial hard work is,” shared MHS senior John Ademuwagun.
Fellow senior Khloe Walker was equally inspired.
“Seeing the alumni and their success makes the future feel more achievable. It’s a powerful reminder that we can leave MHS and thrive in our careers—even if it sometimes feels improbable.”
MHS President Pete Gurt ‘85 closed the conference with an exercise that reminded students of the importance of embracing change, even when it is uncomfortable.
“Growth requires change, and change is hard,” Gurt said. “What matters most is finding where to start.”
The conference is just the beginning for these student leaders. MHS offers year-round opportunities like internships, mentorships, and Career-Focused Education to help students connect with industry leaders and prepare for future success.