Presidential Leadership Fellows
Overview
Charting the Path to Leadership.
The Presidential Leadership Fellows at Barton College seeks to prepare young leaders who will impact communities in new and exciting ways, engaging and leading in a variety of arenas and positions, in areas such as public policy, healthcare, global enterprise, education reform, the arts and international relations. Leadership Fellows will be challenged to think creatively about complex issues that will face the next generation in our ever-changing society, as they prepare for thoughtful and informed citizenship after graduation.
In addition to regular workshops and seminars, Fellows engage with our President, alumni, faculty, key administrators, board members, and civic leaders in the Wilson and Eastern North Carolina communities. First-year students will then serve as mentors to the next incoming cohort.
What You’ll Experience
Involvement
As a Presidential Leadership Fellow, you’ll take part in hands-on leadership opportunities both on campus and in the community. Fellows are invited to attend exclusive leadership workshops, hear from guest speakers, and participate in service-learning projects that make a real impact. You’ll also represent Barton College at special events, gaining valuable experience in public speaking, event planning, and professional engagement.
Growth
Throughout the program, you’ll strengthen essential leadership skills — from communication and collaboration to problem-solving and decision-making. You’ll gain confidence as you practice leading in real-world settings, and you’ll develop a professional network of mentors and peers that can support your future career. This pathway is designed to help you grow not only as a student leader, but also as a servant leader prepared to make a difference beyond Barton.
The Fellows program creates a close-knit community of motivated student leaders who support and challenge one another. You’ll connect with like-minded peers who share your passion for leadership and service, while also building meaningful relationships with faculty, staff, and alumni. Together, you’ll form a strong network — a leadership cohort — that will encourage your success at Barton and beyond.
Who Should Apply?
While we recommend a strong GPA (above 3.0) and strong test scores, the primary focus of the selection committee will be on:
- Leadership potential, as evidenced by previous leadership experience;
- Expressed interest and commitment, as evidenced in the personal statement and interview; and
- Distinctive characteristics that each individual candidate will bring to the program.
Meet Your PLF Leaders
Amanda Metts
“Where there are challenges, there are opportunities.”
In my nearly 30-year tenure at Barton, I have faced many challenges, but each one has opened the door to growth, service, and leadership. I began my career as an admissions counselor in 1997 and rose through the ranks to become Vice President for Admissions and Student Engagement. In my current role, I oversee the entire student experience, from recruitment through campus engagement. This includes leadership of admissions, enrollment, student activities, residence life, student health, and campus safety.
My approach to student leadership development centers on fostering a holistic, purpose-driven campus experience that cultivates future community leaders. Beth and I integrate leadership opportunities throughout the student journey by focusing on communication, involvement, and engagement.
I am also a strong advocate of institution-wide initiatives that instill leadership values in our students. I am proud to serve as one of the Pathway Leaders of the Presidential Leadership Fellows, a four-year program that prepares high-potential students for leadership roles through real-world projects, community engagement, and mentorship.
This approach aligns closely with the College’s mission of preparing students for “leadership and service to their local and global communities.” By creating an environment grounded in engagement and growth, I ensure that Barton graduates are well-equipped to become ethical, service-oriented leaders in their professions and communities.
Beth Searcy
College is home to me. After earning degrees at the University of Virginia and the University of South Carolina, I’ve spoken as a leadership and organizational consultant on over 150 campuses, worked at 7 different colleges and several higher education adjacent organizations, and volunteered with the largest consortium of collegiate women’s leadership in the country. In 2007, I implemented an international collegiate leadership institute with representatives from 135 campuses and have facilitated many others. I have served on the Board of Directors of Young Life, Habitat for Humanity, and the Circle of Sisterhood, a Foundation composed of sorority women with the goal of removing barriers to education for girls worldwide. In 2017, I was recognized in Wilson Woman magazine for my civic engagement and impact. I am a certified Myers-Briggs facilitator and hold certificates in Focus Group Leadership, Beyond Tolerance inclusion, and Title IX advocacy. I’ve also taught Public Speaking and conducted seminars on college readiness and access, professional development, and etiquette. I have mentored many undergraduate leaders through PLF, and I am invested in their journeys at Barton College and beyond.
Your PLF Journey
The program is a comprehensive four year experience with a distinctive focus each semester. Shadowing opportunities with alumni and community leaders will be included at various points throughout the program. Years three and four have “Leadership in Action” projects that will provide real-life opportunities, first on campus and then in the larger community. Those who successfully complete the four year sequence will receive a PLF Certificate and be honored with a medallion at graduation. Becoming a Presidential Leadership Fellow is one of Barton’s most prestigious opportunities.
- Year One: Self-Discovery and Leadership Profiles
- Year Two: Ethical Leadership in a Changing World
- Year Three: Group Dynamics and Project Leadership
- Leadership In Action: The Barton Community
- Year Four: Leading to Make A Difference
- Leadership in Action: The Broader Community (Capstone Project)
Admissions Requirements
- Complete the Pathways application within the Barton College admissions application
- Submit a thoughtfully written personal statement about your previous experience and future aspirations
- Schedule an interview during one of our Open House days: November 7th or February 7th.
Scholarship Opportunities
Students accepted into the PLF Pathway will have the opportunity to receive an extra $2,000 each year in scholarship funds.
Ready to Lead the Way?
The Presidential Leadership Fellows Pathway is more than a program — it’s an opportunity to define your future, discover your strengths, and make a lasting impact. As a Fellow, you’ll chart your own path while joining a network of driven leaders who are shaping communities locally and globally.
If you’re ready to grow, serve, and lead with purpose, we invite you to take the next step. Apply today and begin your journey as a Presidential Leadership Fellow at Barton College.