Building Civic Leaders: DMC Partners with American Village and Troy University for Trojan Patriot Academy
by Chauntina Whittle, McKenzie Civic Fellow
The David Mathews Center had the incredible opportunity to partner with the American Village and Troy University during this year's Trojan Patriot Academy, an immersive summer program aimed at cultivating the next generation of civic leaders.
This year, the Patriot Academy worked with the DMC to introduce a new and inspiring concept, Constitutional Challenges, which split students into different “colonies” and invited students to explore complex problems and how they were addressed during pivotal moments in history. These challenges encouraged students to think critically about the future by looking at the past and how to become proactive actors of change within their communities.
Throughout the week, the DMC team worked alongside 86 outstanding student leaders, facilitating meaningful conversations around civic engagement, leadership, and social responsibility. We explored how to ask the right questions, how to communicate complex challenges in empowering ways, and how to creatively present thoughtful research. Most importantly, we built lasting, encouraging relationships with each student.
A highlight of the week was a powerful panel discussion on Morality and Virtue in Leadership and Civic Duty, featuring DMC Executive Director Scotty Kirkland, who reminded students that active citizenship demands intentional participation. He emphasized the value of curiosity, the importance of listening deeply, and the need to truly understand our communities. Echoing the wisdom of Dr. Mathews, Kirkland inspired students to think about leadership as a service rooted in empathy.
The panel also featured inspiring leaders such as Shelby County District Judge Lara Alvis, who shared personal stories of resilience and the importance of holding true to your values, especially when facing difficult decisions. Colonel Alan Miller, CEO of the American Village, spoke about the necessity of self-awareness, reinforcing the idea that knowing who you are is foundational to being a strong leader. Alabama State Representative Kenneth Paschal encouraged students to discover their personal “compass”—a guiding principle or figure that helps them stay aligned with their goals and values.
Image credits to Troy University
One of the most memorable moments was when students had the rare opportunity to meet Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army Captain Gary “Mike” Rose (ret.), one of only two recipients living in Alabama. Rose shared his powerful story of bravery and reminded students that the core of true leadership lies in courage, humility, and a commitment to service.
Image credits to Troy University
Over the course of the week, we were inspired by the students' growth in confidence, knowledge, creativity, and civic understanding. It was a true honor to witness their minds and hearts open to new possibilities, and to see the seeds of future civic leadership take root.
We extend our deepest thanks to the American Village and Troy University for allowing the DMC to be a part of such an enriching and impactful experience. We were proud to walk alongside these young leaders as they begin their journey of shaping a better future.
Check out Troy University’s blog on the Trojan Patriot Academy experience here.
Image credits to Troy University