Leadership Program
A program for high school students is designed to cultivate thoughtful, independent young adults who are becoming the next generation of leaders in the arts. All members will have a job and schedule that supports their interests and growth.
(15–18 YEAR OLDS | 4- AND 8-WEEK SESSIONS)
Leadership program students gain valuable work experience serving as mentors to younger students and assisting in camp operations. Assigned jobs are performed before and after classes, during performances and lunch, and may sometimes require students to miss a few minutes of class.
Usdan’s Leadership program includes three different job roles. Additionally, members of the Leadership program will have the opportunity to mentor with a staff member or artist in place of their Minor and/or Recreation. Applicants will be asked to state their interest in roles and mentorship; however, the Education Department will decide where they will be placed.
All members of the program will attend Usdan as students and pay tuition. Leadership students will take a Major of their choice as well as supervise our daily Festival performances.
High school students aged 15+ in any major are welcome to apply. Usdan’s Leadership program selection process includes an application, recommendations, and an interview. This selective program accepts applicants based on their leadership potential, age, enthusiasm, and interest in the arts.
Applications for Summer 2026 now open!
JOB ROLES
The Education Department will choose the job role of those selected to participate. All Leadership students must be available for 4 or 8 weeks to qualify for these roles.
LEADER
Age requirement: Must have completed grade 10 and be 16 years old by the start of the program.*
Supervisory responsibilities: Monitor younger students during Festival performances and lunch; escort a group of students in grades 2 and 3 during passing periods.
Stipend: $375 for 4-weeks or $750 for 8-weeks, paid at the end of the summer.
*Exceptions may be made for students who are in grade 9 and are 15 years old.
JUNIOR SAFETY MONITOR
Age requirement: Must have completed grade 10 and be 16 years old by the start of the program.*
Supervisory responsibilities: Monitor younger students during Festival performances and during passing periods.
Stipend: $300 for 4-weeks or $600 for 8-weeks, paid at the end of the summer.
LEADERS IN TRAINING
Age requirement: Must have completed grade 9 and be 15 years old by the start of the program.*
Supervisory responsibilities: Engage in program assistance and training for both positions listed above.
Stipend: There is no stipend for Leaders in Training.