Youth Leadership Academy
About Thomas Davis Youth Leadership Academy
Applications Open!
The Thomas Davis Youth Leadership Academy (TDYLA) is committed to providing leadership development and training to a group of motivated MIDDLE SCHOOL students.
Interested nominees should:
- Be students enrolled in middle school
- Demonstrate their leadership potential for community trusteeship
- Exhibit interest in community service
- Commit to FULL PARTICIPATION AND ATTENDANCE in all Thomas Davis YLA programs
- (80% attendance is required to continue participation and graduate)
- Maintain satisfactory academic, attendance and citizenship records
2022 -2023 Program Schedule
Due to a limited number of positions in the academy, a commitment to the program and full attendance at each activity is expected. If you cannot make a full commitment to the program, please do not apply.
TDYLA was developed by Carolina Panther player Thomas Davis’ Defending Dreams Foundation. The program equips middle school age youth with the practical skills needed to become productive, self-fulfilled and achievement-oriented young adults and community leaders.
The program’s goal is to support or build an educational foundation for the student and to help each participant realize and/or maximize their full potential. The hope is that TDYLA will produce leaders and role models who will lead projects that will help in the improvement of their neighborhoods and communities.