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About Us

The Shelton Leadership Center has been developing values-based leaders across North Carolina and beyond since 2002.

Building the Next Generation of Values-Based Leaders

The Shelton Leadership Center was founded in 2002 by General H. Hugh Shelton following his retirement as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. His desire to give back to his alma mater, North Carolina State University, prompted him to initiate a scholarship. Soon, his efforts grew to include educational programs, youth summer programs, and organizational development training focused on developing the next generation of values-based leaders.

The Shelton Leadership Center’s values-based leadership development programs now reach youth, college students, and professionals at NC State University and other higher education institutions, corporations, government entities, nonprofits, and youth development organizations. 

We demonstrate our values-based approach by:

  • Leading with accountability to our personal and professional ethics.
  • Seeking unique perspectives and experiences to strengthen our impact and reach.
  • Striving to understand and respect the thoughts, feelings, and needs of others to guide our actions.
  • Collaborating with local and global communities to enact positive change.

Our Mission

To inspire, educate, and develop values-based leaders committed to personal integrity, professional ethics, and selfless service.

Our Vision

The Shelton Leadership Center’s vision is to be a leading community of practice in values-based leadership development throughout pre-college, university, and professional communities, and eventually across the nation and world through access. Our Center will sustain and expand hands-on interdisciplinary training and skills development that emphasizes personal values, preparing future generational leaders for tomorrow’s greatest challenges.

ABOUT OUR FOUNDER

General Henry Hugh Shelton, USA (R)
14th Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff


Center Founder and Executive Director
Henry Hugh Shelton was born in Tarboro, North Carolina, and grew up on a farm near the small town of Speed. After graduating from North Edgecombe High School, he entered North Carolina State University. He enjoyed the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) and enrolled for an additional two years beyond the two then mandatory for men attending land-grant colleges.

General Shelton Military Video

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