Oracle Charter School kicks off its Leader-to-Leader Speaker Series

BUFFALO, NY – John Ashwood, head of school at Oracle Charter School, announced the kickoff last week of the school’s Leader-to-Leader Speaker Series. The series’ inaugural speaker was Jamel Perkins, adjunct professor at the Canisius College Richard J. Wehle School of Business, and former executive at Delaware North Companies, Greater Buffalo Savings Bank, M&T Bank, and Hewlett Packard.

Perkins spoke to a group of 20 young student leaders from Oracle about the power of self-actualization and self-governance. He stressed the importance of setting goals and persevering in the face of life’s challenges. In a 30-minute discussion period following the lecture, students were able to ask questions and were encouraged to reflect on how Perkins’ message applied to their lives. Observed one student, “You are accountable for everything you do – nobody can do it for you. The only person that can stand in your way of success is you.”

Students were selected for the program based on their emerging leadership qualities and the potential they exhibit both inside and outside the classroom. The group is intentionally diverse and represents all levels of academic achievement, performance, and life experience.

“This program is about leadership. It isn’t about recognizing grades or performance. It’s about strengthening our students’ leadership qualities and giving them direction on how to maximize their potential and lead in a positive way,” said Ashwood.

Oracle created the Leader-to-Leader Speaker Series to recognize and develop leadership skills in their students. Each speaker in the series will share their personal and professional experience and ideas for success.

Oracle Charter School is located at 888 Delaware Avenue in a turn-of-the-century, E. B. Green-designed mansion. The school has a total enrollment of approximately 350 students in grades 9-12.  More than 50 faculty and staff are employed at the school. Class sizes are 22 students or fewer.