Earlier this month, rising junior Jayden Ortiz represented Brother Rice High School at the prestigious Illinois Leadership Seminar, held June 13–15 at Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, IL.
Since 1977, the Illinois Leadership Seminar (ILS) has provided a free, transformative weekend of leadership development to outstanding high school sophomores from across the state. The fully volunteer-run program challenges students to grow in areas such as critical thinking, service, communication, and social awareness, all while connecting them with peers and mentors from diverse backgrounds.
Jayden was nominated by Brother Rice as a standout leader in his class—and with good reason. He is a well-rounded student and an active member of the school community, involved in volleyball, chess, Mount Sion as a Peer Mentor, Peer Mediators, the National Honor Society (NHS), Science National Honor Society (SNHS), Geo Quest Club, Crusaders for Guadalupe, Student Council, Advocacy Club, and the Diversity Club.
A graduate of Kinzie Elementary School and a parishioner at St. Gall Church, Jayden brings his strong values and deep sense of community to everything he does. His wide-ranging interests and commitment to service made him a natural fit for the ILS experience.
During the seminar, Jayden participated in team-building activities, group discussions, leadership workshops, and interactive presentations led by professionals and student mentors. His small group, facilitated by an ILS-trained junior coach, provided a space for reflection, connection, and growth. Beyond the classroom-style sessions, he had the opportunity to build friendships with students from across Illinois and explore the values of servant leadership, active listening, and community engagement.
Reflecting on the experience, Jayden shared, “Illinois Leadership Seminar was life-changing. It didn’t just teach me how to lead, but how to listen with purpose. It pushed me beyond my comfort zone and helped me grow into someone who leads with empathy and confidence.”
Jayden’s participation in the seminar reflects his strong character and leadership potential. He now joins a statewide network of ILS alumni and will have opportunities to continue developing his skills, including returning in future years as a junior or adult staff member.
We are proud of Jayden for representing Brother Rice with excellence and look forward to the many ways he will continue to lead in our school and beyond.
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