Reagan Choat, a junior majoring in plant and landscape systems management with a horticulture emphasis, is one of 22 undergraduate students selected for the inaugural cohort of the JoAnn Martin Leadership Academy, which draws participants from a variety of class levels and majors across the university.
The academy is designed to develop students’ leadership skills, business acumen, career readiness and self-awareness. Over the course of the semester, students attend weekly leadership seminars about topics such as ethical decision-making, conflict resolution, and executive storytelling and influence. The program also includes individualized career and strengths coaching and experiential learning opportunities, culminating in a capstone showcase where each student presents an individual leadership strategy.
“I saw an ad for this program in a university email, and because I want to improve my leadership skills, I decided to apply,” Choat said. “It seems like a great way to learn more about the science behind leadership and interact with other student leaders on campus.”
The academy honors the legacy of JoAnn Martin, '75, a leader and mentor who spent her career investing in others’ growth and helping young professionals recognize their potential. The academy is built on her belief that leadership can be developed through intentional learning, mentorship and experience.
The cohort kicked off the semester with an orientation at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Challenge Course, where students challenged themselves and began forming connections with one another. Wednesday, Aug. 26, marks the official first day of the program, and program coordinator Erin Stanley says everyone is eager to see how the students grow throughout the semester.
Involved on campus, inspired at home
Choat is making the most out of his time at the university. Beyond his major, he’s pursuing minors in business law and The Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program. Extracurriculars are an important part of his campus experience too; he is a member of the Engler Experience Team and Salt Student Ministries, serves as a College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Peer Career Coach and holds a seat as a senator in the Association of Students of the University of Nebraska.
Choat credits his older brothers as his main inspiration.
“I have plenty of mentors and advisors on campus, but the individuals that have guided and inspired me the most are my older brothers,” Choat said. “I saw how motivated and involved they were on campus and that set a precedent for me.”
The program continues Martin’s legacy by preparing students to lead with integrity, courage, and purpose. Just as his older brothers set the precedent for him, Choat is now setting one of his own.
For questions about the JoAnn Martin Leadership Academy, please contact Rachel Larson at rachel.larson@unl.edu or Erin Stanley at estanley4@unl.edu.
