*In this photo:* DSU Project L.E.A.D. students enjoying one of many program field trips.

On Campus

DSU education department hosts Project L.E.A.D. summer camp

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Delaware State University welcomed middle and high school students to campus this July for its second annual Project L.E.A.D. summer camp, a program that continues to grow and inspire future leaders.

Project L.E.A.D. (Leaders Educating and Advocating Daringly) is run by DSU’s Education Department and funded through congressional directed funds awarded in 2023. The camp is designed to build leadership skills, personal growth, and academic confidence among students of color, while also encouraging more young people to see teaching as a future career.

Last summer, 17 students attended the one-week camp. This year, that number doubled, and the program expanded to two weeks at the students’ request. Word spread quickly from last year’s participants.

Much of the planning was led by DSU senior Glendon Harmon, who worked throughout the year to prepare logistics and mentor training. He and a team of DSU students guided campers through workshops, field trips, and team-building activities.

DSU Project L.E.A.D. students pose for a group photo.

Students from across Delaware took part in leadership and identity workshops, financial literacy and wellness sessions, and a full DSU campus tour. They also enjoyed field trips to the African American Museum in Philadelphia, Lums Pond State Park, K1 Racing in Maryland, and outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking.

The impact showed in the numbers. Ninety-two percent of campers said the program helped them see themselves as leaders. Nearly two-thirds said they were more interested in becoming teachers or working in education and almost every participant left with a stronger sense of identity, history, and culture.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our students, whose engagement, energy, and positivity brought this experience to life,” said Darren Rainey, Program Manager for Recruitment and Retention of Diverse Educators.

What began as a small pilot in 2023 is now a two-week experience that is changing the way students see their future. With continued growth, Project L.E.A.D. is shaping the next generation of leaders and educators in Delaware.