LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

The Jeter's Leaders Leadership Conference is composed of workshops that the Jeter's Leaders create based on topics they feel are affecting teens today. Bi-annually, the leaders from New York and Kalamazoo host the conference for other youth leadership programs throughout the United States to inspire social change.

Derek Jeter’s Turn 2 Foundation hosts Jeter’s Leaders Leadership Summit Presented by Goldman Sachs at IMG Academy

Turn 2’s Jeter’s Leaders partnered with The Pack Shack for service project assembling 75,600 nutritious meals for families experiencing food insecurity

Four-day initiative featured powerful youth-led workshops, Q&A with Derek Jeter, compelling panel discussion, mental health and leadership coaching

BRADENTON, Fla. – July 30, 2026 – High school students from Derek Jeter's Turn 2 Foundation's Jeter's Leaders program gathered at IMG Academy, the world's leading sports education brand, for the 2026 Jeter's Leaders Leadership Summit Presented by Goldman Sachs. Hosted at the world's most advanced sports and educational institution, the four-day summit brought together student leaders for an immersive experience centered on leadership development, youth empowerment, community service and social impact.

Throughout the summit, students explored critical social issues during interactive workshops, strengthened their confidence through mental health and leadership coaching led by IMG Academy team members, heard from a panel of Jeter’s Leaders alumni, led a meaningful community service project benefiting local families facing food insecurity and participated in a Q&A with Derek Jeter as part of IMG Academy’s Impact Series.

“As we celebrate Turn 2’s 30th anniversary and continue expanding our programs in South Florida, it was especially meaningful to come together with our Jeter’s Leaders and young people from surrounding communities at IMG Academy,” Derek Jeter said. “Investing in young people has always been at the heart of Turn 2’s mission, and the Jeter’s Leaders Leadership Summit is an opportunity for our students to challenge themselves, give back and grow as leaders. Watching them step outside their comfort zones, work together, and tackle issues affecting youth today is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. We’re so proud of their hard work and passion and excited to see the positive impact they’ll continue to make in their schools, communities and beyond.”

Prior to the service project, Derek Jeter surprised local youth at IMG Academy’s baseball camp. Following, he joined the Jeter’s Leaders alongside Turn 2 Foundation President Sharlee Jeter, and youth from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County for a community service project in partnership with The Pack Shack and IMG Academy Foundation. During the “Feed the Funnel” party, the group packed 75,600 nutritious meals for local families in need. The food was donated directly to Harvest House, a supportive and affordable housing and hunger relief provider throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

“Through community service, thought-provoking conversations, and interactive workshops, the Jeter’s Leaders Leadership Summit helps young people discover their strengths, broaden their perspectives and develop the skills to lead with purpose,” said Sharlee Jeter, President of the Turn 2 Foundation. “It’s critical to teach youth that leadership goes beyond personal success – it’s about using your voice, setting a positive example and making a difference in the lives of others. IMG Academy’s commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes aligns closely with our mission of empowering youth to lead healthy lifestyles and reach their full potential, and we’re incredibly grateful for their partnership. We also deeply appreciate The Pack Shack for their dedication to uplifting communities, as well as our outstanding panelists, whose insights and experiences helped create an unforgettable Summit for our Jeter’s Leaders.”

Throughout the week, the Jeter’s Leaders participated in mental health and leadership coaching led by IMG Academy, youth-led workshops exploring pressing topics such as sexism, racism, education, gun violence, child abuse, mental health, poverty and social media. They also engaged in team building across campus and a panel discussion featuring Jeter’s Leaders alumni, who shared insights from their leadership journeys and the lasting impact of the program.

“The Jeter's Leaders Leadership Summit is a powerful example of what's possible when organizations come together around a shared purpose, and we were honored to partner with Derek and Sharlee Jeter to bring their vision to life,” said Chris Ciaccio, Chief Commercial Officer of IMG Academy. “By combining The Turn 2 Foundation's commitment to developing the next generation of leaders with our world-class campus, coaches, educators and holistic development programming, we created an unrivaled experience that can only happen at IMG Academy.”

Turn 2’s signature initiative, Jeter’s Leaders is an intensive four-year program for high school students who serve as ambassadors for Derek Jeter in their communities. Established by Jeter in 1996, the Foundation motivates youth to rise above negative influences, lead healthy lifestyles and serve as agents of positive social change. For the past 19 consecutive years, 100% of Jeter’s Leaders have gone on to attend college and pursue successful futures after high school.