CMU President John Marshall Inspires Young Leaders at Orchard Avenue Elementary School
CMU President John Marshall visited Orchard Avenue Elementary School and gave a group of young leaders an inspiring lesson in leadership. Speaking with third, fourth and fifth graders in the school’s leadership class, Marshall shared insights on leadership, education and the exciting opportunities that await them. His visit encouraged students to envision their potential as leaders and sparked curiosity about their futures.
During the visit, Marshall engaged with the students by discussing CMU’s core values of Love, Dignity, Resilience, Humility, Courage, Curiosity and Power. He described how the values guide both his work and the university’s mission, helping to shape decisions and create a strong, supportive campus community.
“It was wonderful to have President Marshall visiting our student leadership team at Orchard Avenue,” said Orchard Avenue Elementary School Principal Teal Richards. “He spoke to them about the core values that guide his leadership and decision-making, and really helped our leadership students make connections about how leadership can look in the real-world, outside of the elementary school environment.”
The students were eager to learn from Marshall’s experience and asked thoughtful questions about his role at CMU. As Marshall shared insight into the challenges and rewards of leadership, the students listened with curiosity, engaging thoughtfully in the conversation.
“He was really able to speak to the qualities of positive leadership and help our kids see what leadership looks like for adults, in real life and in the world,” said Richards. “He also brought awareness to CMU and the amazing work and learning opportunities happening right here in our valley.”
To commemorate the visit, each student received a CMU hat, which represented their potential as leaders and symbolized that higher education is within reach.
“We’re engaging these students at a young age to help them understand that there is a pathway to higher education and leadership,” said Marshall. “They can achieve it, and we can help make it possible.”
As they walked away with their CMU gear and a deeper understanding of leadership, each student learned that their potential is limitless.
