OPINION — As America celebrates its 250th birthday this Fourth of July, it’s worth asking a simple question: What kind of nation do we hope it will be when it celebrates its 300th?
Every generation inherits a nation shaped by those who came before it. In turn, each generation has the responsibility to prepare those who will come next. The America we celebrate today exists because previous generations invested in developing citizens of character who were willing to lead, serve and contribute to something larger than themselves.
Every week, I have the privilege of watching young people learn to lead, solve problems together, serve their communities and accomplish things they didn't think they could do. Experiences like those remind me that leadership isn't something we're born with. It is developed through opportunity, encouragement and practice.
