The Lott Leadership Institute

The Summer Leadership Institute for Rising 9th Graders

The Lott Institute for Rising Ninth Graders, a partnership between the University of Mississippi’s Lott Leadership Institute and the Division of Outreach, is a program designed to develop critical thinking and leadership skills in soon-to-be high school freshmen.

Its aim is to cultivate and inspire honest, compassionate, and responsive leaders who will focus on responsibility and stewardship. Every year students who complete the program return to their high schools and put their new skills to work for the betterment of the community.

Nomination Information

What Students are Saying

Former participants have shared their feedback with us. Take a look!


“I learned all about Problems in American Democracy and our government. The course covered more than I ever dreamed in two weeks. I also learned social and leadership skills while connecting with my peers.”

Student ParticipantSummer 2017

“I learned a lot of new history that I’ve never gotten a detailed description of in school. I feel prepared to go back to school and be confident in my history classes. I will also be able to lead better in all parts of my life.”

Student ParticipantSummer 2018

“Out of all the things we did, I think what impacted me most was the trip to C-Spire. I take a robotics class in school which I absolutely love, and just to see what they could really do and what the minds of mankind can achieve was astounding to me.”

Student ParticipantSummer 2018