The John Robert Lewis Leaders Program

BACKGROUND

After the passing of Congressman Lewis July 17, 2020, it became clear the Faith & Politics Institute could work to fulfill his mandate that “we all have roles to play” as his mantle is extended to the next generation of leaders. To this end, FPI has established the John Robert Lewis Scholars & Fellows Program. 

Two parallel cohorts – John Robert Lewis Scholars & Fellows (students) and John Robert Lewis Leaders (professionals) – will work in a single program to cultivate an intergenerational transfer and exchange of wisdom, inspiration, and methods for action.

MISSION

The Faith & Politics Institute works to bridge the divides that arise in our thriving democracy and create productive paths forward. We ground our work in the philosophy of civil rights leader and Board Chair Emeritus, the late Congressman John Lewis. Like Lewis, we believe that making lasting positive social change requires that “the means and ends are inseparable.”

Since 1991, we have brought US Presidents, Cabinet members, Members of Congress of both chambers and parties, diplomats, nonprofit and corporate leaders together through our nonpartisan work. We foster greater understanding, mutual respect, moral reflection, and honest conversation to achieve a just and peaceful nation aspired to by our Founders and their heirs.

VISION

Our vision is based on three important tenets:

• Strengthening moral leadership to advance our democracy;

• Cultivating mutual respect, moral reflection and honest conversation required to build common ground, create positive change, and dissent without degradation; and

• Bridging differences of political affiliation, geography, faith, class, and race for the common good.

Why Should Corporations Sponsor a Leader?

FPI is helping build and mold future leadership who will mentor others in a positive way. These executives will know and understand the complexities of the civil rights movement then and now to aid them in dealing with today's social justice challenges, fostering inclusive workplaces, and driving meaningful change within their organizations and communities. Equipped with a strong foundation in critical thinking and effective problem-solving, they will excel in team building and collaborative leadership, ensuring that diverse perspectives are valued and integrated into every initiative.

Program Benefits

• Supporting corporate employee investment. Leaders get a rewarding experience and can show the company their growth potential

• Expanding and deepening corporate leadership, mentorship, and creating a network of leaders/contemporaries as they continue in their corporate role

• Meeting company Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Training and/Programming goals in creating an inclusive, culture-centric organization

• Gaining exposure to intergenerational interactions and access to future employees

• Creating future CEO’s and C-suite execs who not only know the history of the movement, but also know how to manage and communicate with a team in today’s ever-changing environment

• Leaders are exposed to Members of Congress, business leaders, and future changemakers, join a nationwide alumni network, and bring the lessons they learn back to their companies

Testimonials from leaders

Sponsor a John Robert Lewis Leader Today!

For questions about the John Robert Lewis Leaders Program please contact Jen Jones at jen@redriverco.net