Twenty-two alumni representing seven states will participate in the school’s 14th annual Leadership Darlington program in March.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Leadership Darlington Class of 2026 back to the Lakeside for what promises to be a meaningful experience,” said Stephen Taylor, director of alumni relations. “Leadership Darlington is about reconnecting alumni to Darlington’s mission, deepening their sense of stewardship, and empowering them to help shape the future of a place that helped shape them. The strength of Darlington has always rested in its people, and this program ensures that the legacy of leadership continues.”
Members of the Leadership Darlington Class of 2026 will include Cardin Wyatt Bradley ('84), Jaclyn Brass ('10), John Cain ('84), Bryan Clontz ('88), Lee Couch ('11), Matthew Duckworth ('10), Stephanie Denney Dunton ('91), Andy Gates ('02), Joey Graham ('84), Mitch Jordan ('90), Wesley Jordan Knight ('99), Bob Ledbetter III ('16), Monica L’Esperance ('01), Anna Sargent Miller ('01), Beth Mooney Wellesley ('00), Jenny Morris ('04), Ethan Pender ('16), Tom Richardson ('72), Justin Rufen-Blanchette ('08), Regina Leigh Vandiver ('98), Jon Wade ('94) and Smith Wheeler ('19).
Over two days, participants will obtain an integrated view of Darlington, including the internal and external forces that affect the school’s direction and the challenges it faces. They will also engage directly with teachers, students, and senior administrators and take part in forward-looking discussions focused on Darlington’s future.
The program will feature Whit Whitaker ('77, LD ’15) as honorary chair of Leadership Darlington. He is the former president of King University and a retired U.S. Navy captain whose 25-year military career included decorated service in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps. Whitaker has contributed his time and expertise to numerous civic, community, and professional organizations, including service at Berry College in advancement, as chief of staff, and as secretary to the Berry College Board of Trustees. He currently serves as vice chair of the Darlington Board of Trustees, having joined the board in 2019.
Alumni interested in participating in Leadership Darlington 2027 should contact alumni@darlingtonschool.org.
Click here for more information about the program.
