Ignite your leadership potential

What is Torch Leadership Academy?

Torch Leadership Academy (TORCH) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that hosts a 4-day leadership program at Stockton University, free of cost for rising sophomore, junior, and senior high school students.

TORCH is run by a volunteer group of professionals and college students, many of whom have worked together for over 25 years. We provide advanced leadership seminars and service learning opportunities throughout the year for past participants.

We provide fun and engaging opportunities for students to explore their unique leadership potential, inspiring them to contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Our mission is to develop and empower leaders through meaningful connections and transformative experiences.

🔥

🔥

  • FOUR-DAY PROGRAM

    If you or someone you know wants to attend TORCH, check out our program overview to learn all about our four-day program, and sign up for our email list so you never miss any updates!

    Learn More

  • LEADERSHIP RESOURCES

    We provide curated leadership resources for students, parents/guardians, and educators. Utilize these resources for yourself or others, to help elevate your leadership styles.

    Resources

  • SUPPORT TORCH

    TORCH is 100% financed by our generous donors, who allow us to provide a cost-free experience for all participants. Check out our sponsorship opportunities to help fund TORCH.

    Donations

Program Requirements & FAQs

Torch Leadership Academy is a four-day residential summer program, taking place from Saturday, July 19th, through Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025, for high school students across New Jersey and surrounding regions. Our program helps students hone their skills and build upon their leadership potential. Participants will have opportunities to compete in teams, play games, and engage in interactive activities in ways they have never seen before. If you want to build connections with others, grow as an empathetic leader, and empower those around you, we highly encourage you to apply next year for TORCH 2026!

We expect that 115 students will attend our summer program and strive to maintain a maximum 2:1 student-to-staff ratio to provide the best possible experience for participants. 

We believe in focusing on each student's individual growth.  High academic achievement, existing leadership roles, and resumes of experience are not necessary to apply to TORCH.  We seek students who are willing to learn and want to build skills to make an impact in their local communities.

​Our Selection Committee considers students' interest and desire to learn, equity and accessibility, and readiness for the next level when choosing participants for the program.

Questions? info@torchleadershipacademy.org

  • It costs ZERO dollars for all students to apply and attend Torch Leadership Academy (an experience valued at approximately $500). This is possible through our wonderful donors and sponsors!

  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided during the program through the dining facilities of Stockton University and are fully paid for by TORCH. All dietary restrictions will be gathered and accommodated during the program acceptance process.

  • Students will reside overnight in on-campus dormitories (2 students to a room) at Stockton University. There will be communal bathrooms with private shower stalls accessible to students on their assigned floor. Housing assignments aim to encourage new connections while ensuring comfort. Housing preferences and requests will be gathered during the program acceptance process.

  • To participate, all students and a parent or legal guardian will need to fill out a packet of forms, which includes the Code of Student Conduct, Waiver and Release, Medical Release Form*, and Housing Survey. These forms will be made available after applications close for TORCH, during the program acceptance process

    *Students needing medication during their stay at TORCH should document this in their Medical Release Form. They will be responsible for administering their medication.

  • To expedite questions and concerns, we provide a recommended packing list for all students. We highly recommend comfortable clothing for summer weather and closed-toed shoes. We will send a full packing list during the program acceptance process. Students will receive a TORCH drawstring bag at registration.

  • No. We ask all participants to be dropped off by a parent or guardian. If special arrangements need to be made, please contact info@torchleadershipacademy.org. If you know someone attending the program, feel free to carpool!

  • No! TORCH has had participants from Pennsylvania, New York, and even Tennessee! If you have questions as an out-of-state applicant, please reach out to info@torchleadershipacademy.org

  • "Throughout the program, I was challenged in ways I never imagined. The activities and exercises forced me to step out of my comfort zone and break free from the constraints of my shell. Your guidance, support, and encouragement played a vital role in helping me discover new aspects of myself and unlock my potential."

    Past Participant Testimonial

  • "I am immensely grateful for the bonds that were forged within our team. The sense of camaraderie and unity we developed was beyond anything I had experienced before. Together, we faced various challenges, celebrated victories, and supported one another through every step of the journey. These unbreakable bonds have left an indelible mark on my heart."

    Past Participant Testimonial

  • "I absolutely had a great time at this program. Everyone was so welcoming and energetic, and there truly was never a moment that I felt bored. The counselors were all super excited to be here and help, and you could feel the positivity of everyone here... Overall, this program was super organized and I felt all the love everyone had for this program in everything we did."

    Past Participant Testimonial

  • "The lessons I learned and the memories I made will stay with me for a lifetime. I feel better equipped to face challenges, lead with confidence, and build strong relationships with others, all thanks to the guidance and mentorship I received."

    Past Participant Testimonial

  • "The commitment and passion displayed by each member of the Torch Leadership Academy staff were truly inspiring. Your expertise, dedication, and genuine care for the participants shone through in every aspect of the program. You created a safe and nurturing environment where we could grow as individuals and as a team."

    Past Participant Testimonial

  • "[The staff] helped make TORCH such a welcoming and safe environment."

    Past Participant Testimonial