In this episode of HCS Talks, Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes chats with Brandon Jones, senior director for school partnerships and outreach for Christopher Newport University and Dr. Veronica Hurd, director of the Academies of Hampton, about how Hampton City Schools is strengthening student leadership across grade levels. They discuss the partnership with CNU, which connects college students with HCS high school students through mentorship and leadership development. Also, the middle school ambassador program helps younger students build confidence and communication skills early on. The conversation highlights how these programs empower students to lead, serve, and positively impact their school communities.