As part of their training, Student Ambassadors for the Academies of Louisville engaged in a powerful activity titled "Begin with the End in Mind." This exercise was designed to help them articulate the impact they want to have on prospective students and their families, emphasizing the importance of clear goals and effective communication.

On September 25-26, 2024, Bellarmine University transformed into a dynamic learning hub for the Student Ambassadors of the Academies of Louisville. This intensive two-day training program welcomed representatives from all fifteen Academies schools, with eight schools participating on the first day and seven on the second.

The Student Ambassadors from our fifteen schools represent the Academies of Louisville with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm.

By representing their schools to the community, leading tours, and interacting with business leaders, these young leaders showcase the practical skills and confidence gained through the Academies' innovative approach. Their role as the public face of the Academies highlights the program's commitment to preparing students for future careers, fostering community connections, and providing relevant, hands-on learning experiences that extend beyond traditional classroom walls.

The Academies of Louisville recently welcomed a delegation of educators from four Arkansas school districts, showcasing our innovative approach to career-focused education. This visit marks a significant step in the spread of the academy model and highlights the growing interest in our program's success.

The retreat aimed to align the team's vision for the upcoming year and strategize on sustaining momentum in their initiatives. The retreat's theme, "growing and sustaining," was aptly symbolized by the flywheel metaphor, illustrating the power of sustained effort in achieving long-term success.

The Academies of Louisville Alliance represents the next evolution of this initiative. Representing KentuckianaWorks and GLI, this new team provides the additional staffing and resources needed to support 15 schools, 200+ Business Partners, and over 19,000 high school students.

The Academies of Louisville program has once again demonstrated its positive impact on students' lives, and we're not the only ones taking notice. Business and community leaders gathered to celebrate the year’s successes, helping 19,000 students gain valuable skills and experiences that prepare them for future careers.