Student leaders from Randolph- Henry and Central Middle School joined Cumberland, and Buckingham County Middle and High Schools to participate in the three-day Truth Empowerment Summit. Together, with teacher and school counselor chaperones, the students embarked on a powerful, transformational experience in which they gained tools to rise up and make a difference in their schools.

Students began at Robert Russa Moton Museum where inspirational speakers Jenny and Savannah McIntosh spoke on owning your story and living unashamed. College student leaders from Longwood University joined the students as small group mentors. Students received a tour of the museum and the life of Barbara Rose Johns who took a stand at their age and made a profound impact on history. Dr. Marty Marra, Longwood Physical Education professor, finished the day with a teaching on emotional health.

Each of the three days was equally as powerful and featured the beautiful locations of Hampden-Sydney College and Southside Virginia Community College. The summit came to a close with a final presentation by main speaker and founder of My Truth Bomb, LLC, Jenny McIntosh. Parents and school administrators were in attendance to watch as their students showcased school action plans aimed at improving the climate and culture within their schools. The program will continue throughout the school year within the three school divisions as the student leaders implement their plans with the help of their school counselors and teachers. These students have gained the knowledge and the confidence to rise up in their schools and take a stand to decrease the impact of bullying.