Learn more below about the amazing experiences from attendees of the 2022 McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character hosted at the United States Military Academy (USMC).

Wilma Tay

Wilma Tay (WCAS ’24) attended the 2022 McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character, hosted at West Point, the US Military Academy, in New York. The conference brings together a diverse group of the top undergraduate student leaders from across the globe and introduces them to accomplished mentors, drawn from the public and private sectors, in a team-based event that bolsters leadership skills, fosters critical thinking and collaboration, and develops potential strategies for addressing pressing global issues. With external funding to cover the cost of attendance, Wilma built upon the skills she already possesses from her time as a Posner Fellow and as a resident assistant.

Bupe Lughano Kabaghe

A couple of weeks ago, I got an email from West Point, one of the best Military academy’s in the world congratulating me for my acceptance into the McDonald Leaders of Character fellowship. This was a pleasing surprise because someone that believes in my dream of being President, knows my story and the work that I have done and continue to do in advocacy, research and youth empowerment mentioned my name in a room I never even knew existed.

I am just about to fly back from New York after spending a couple of days at West Point, The United States Military Academy. I was there to not only represent Notre Dame but fly the Zambian flag high at the prestigious McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character.

It was such an amazing couple of days made possible by Bob and Diane McDonald who have created this incredible network of young leaders from all over the world. It was such a great experience interacting and working with the West Point cadets and military officers of all ranks and positions.

I am so honored to have been mentored and inspired by Colonel Everett Spain of the US Army, Mayor of Westfield, New Jersey Shelley Brindle, Dr Leslie Fenwick, Dean Emerita at Howard University, Stephanie Khurana COO of DRK Foundation,

Indra Nooyi former Chairwoman and CEO of PepsiCo, Patrick Swygert , President Emeritus of Howard University and so many other incredible leaders in their fields.

I am so grateful for the knowledge and meaningful connections I am walking away with.