At HOBY, our leadership development programs ensure that students gain awareness of themselves and others, practice and apply newly learned skills, and leave feeling empowered to make a positive impact on the world around them. With authenticity, connection, and growth at the core of our programming, our student ambassadors learn what it means to be an aware and engaged community member.
Our flagship State Leadership Seminars welcome school and community-nominated student ambassadors to 3-4 day seminars each spring and summer. These student ambassadors participate in facilitated dialogue and abilities-based workshops to develop awareness of their leadership strengths and an understanding of their leadership values. Through these dynamic activities with their peers, students hone their skills and learn to recognize, amplify, and collaborate with the diverse strengths of others. Held on college or university campuses, our programs give students a taste of college life while they dive into our engaging and FUN leadership development curriculum.
Each summer, the World Leadership Conference hosts student ambassadors representing all 50 United States and 15+ countries in a major U.S. city. This week-long, immersive leadership experience challenges students to think critically, communicate effectively, and act with integrity. The WLC leaves students with a robust global network and the tools to change the world around them. While the majority of student ambassadors have attended a HOBY State Leadership Seminar, students who have participated in other leadership or service organizations are also eligible to attend the WLC.
HOBY has long-held partnerships with schools across the United States, and the majority of students attend a State Leadership Seminar after being nominated by their schools. If you’re not sure about your school’s involvement with HOBY, check with your counselors or administrators. If your school contact doesn’t know about HOBY, let us know and we will connect with them! Students can also be nominated to attend a State Leadership Seminar by HOBY alumni, volunteers, community members, or partner organizations. Attending the World Leadership Conference does not require a nomination.
Location(s)
- State Leadership Seminars: Each state holds its own seminar. See the full schedule here.
- World Leadership Conference: Loyola University, Chicago, Illinois
Schedule
- State Leadership Seminars: Dates vary by state, but seminars are generally held in April, May, and June. See the full schedule here.
- World Leadership Conference: July 19 - 26, 2025
Cost/Compensation
- State Leadership Seminars: Costs vary by state but generally range from $225-$425 per student
- World Leadership Conference: $1,995
Eligibility Requirements
- State Leadership Seminars: High school sophomores who receive a school or community nomination
- World Leadership Conference:
- Be a HOBY alumni from a 2024 or 2025 HOBY state seminar or
- Be a rising secondary or high school junior (11th grade) or senior (12th grade) between the ages of 15 - 17
Deadline
- School-based State Leadership Seminar nominations are due by December 13, 2024; community-based nominations then open in January
- World Leadership Conference: Rolling
Application or Entry Requirements
- State Leadership Seminars:
- Schools or community members complete the student nomination form
- Nominated students complete the registration form
- World Leadership Conference: Complete the online registration and make a $200 deposit
Notifications of Decisions
Financial Aid Details
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
Have other questions?
Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1958 that provides leadership development programs for high school students. HOBY's mission is to inspire and prepare young leaders for a life dedicated to leadership, service, and innovation.
