Meet 1833 Leadership Academy
We’re on a mission to transform the lives of young people by teaching leadership, character, and community. Founded by a team of educators, coaches, and community leaders, 1833 Leadership Academy is built on a set of core values that transcend any single belief system—integrity, empathy, humility, and more.
Our Mission & Vision
Mission
Redemptive relationships and accountability are the best ways to achieve real, heart felt change both as an individual and in large groups. It is so easy to fall into a pattern of apathy as we go through our lives. Our organization was born out of a commitment to stop passing over the real issues of society, and to set out to achieve real, authentic change in people's lives. At the 1833 Leadership Academy we are striving to inspire, equip and engage a generation of leaders who know how to develop authentic relationships based on accountability and vulnerability.
Vision
A world where every young person steps into their potential and uses their talents to create positive change, no matter their faith, culture, or interests.
Our Core Virtues

While humility may be difficult to embrace in a world that often values individual achievement, it is a crucial component of personal growth and authentic relationships. By understanding the barriers to humility and actively working to cultivate it, we can create a more balanced and fulfilling life. Embracing humility not only enriches our own experiences but also fosters a culture of understanding and collaboration in our communities.
Humility

In today's world of technology and information, truth has become relative to the individual and this truth can change or be distorted based upon environment or circumstance. Integrity on the other hand is unchanging and always operating from a oneness or wholeness perspective.
Integrity

Reaffirming a commitment to fairness, accountability, and equity is essential for restoring public faith in justice as a vital component of a functioning democracy. Without this commitment, the erosion of justice will continue, leaving communities fractured and vulnerable, and ultimately threatening the stability of society as a whole.
Justice

Perseverance is more than just stubbornness; it’s a steadfastness in doing something despite difficulties or delay in achieving success. It involves resilience, grit, and the determination to keep moving forward, even when the path is fraught with challenges.
Perserverance

Gratitude is more than just a polite response to receiving something; it’s a profound emotional experience that acknowledges the goodness in our lives. Research shows that practicing gratitude can lead to improved mental health, increased happiness, and stronger relationships. By focusing on what we appreciate, we can counteract negative emotions and cultivate a more positive outlook.
Gratitude

There is a significant difference between courage and bravery. Bravery is blindly running into dangerous situations without acknowledging and diagnosing the potential dangers. Courage acknowledges the danger and still moves forward with action. Daring greatly and dreaming big is the point of emphasis and this is what it means to be courageous.
Courage

Devotion is being committed to something or someone beyond yourself. It is the desire to sacrifice your own selfish interests to accomplish the greater good or goal based upon your level of commitment and dedication to that someone or something
Devotion

When making decisions it is important to have a system in place that is relied on but most importantly, once a decision is made do not evaluate the decision based on end results of the situation. Focus on living life without regrets and learning from experiences and decisions. This will allow for continued personal growth, accountability, and quality relationships throughout life.
Discernment
Our Story
1833 Leadership Academy was born out of a simple idea: that leadership isn’t reserved for a select few. It’s a skill anyone can learn—and a mindset everyone can embrace. We saw too many young people unsure of themselves, struggling to communicate or feeling they didn’t fit the typical “leader” mold. So we created a program that combines personal development, community service, and timeless principles in a format that’s open to all.
Our Values & Approach

Inclusivity
We're guided by moral principles that are common across many faiths and philosophies, but we're open to all perspectives.

Practical Skills
We believe leadership is something you practice, not just learn about. Our workshops get you on your feet, trying new things.

Growth Mindset
Discover the value of honesty, empathy, and respect - universal qualities that resonate with any personal belief system.

Community Impact
Every session includes a service or community component, so you see how leadership can make a tangible difference.
Meet Our Team

Jeremiah Chaney
Executive Director & Founder
Jeremiah is an award-winning educator and coach with 24 years of teaching experience. A Wheaton College and Rockford University graduate, he now coaches football at Aurora University. A dedicated husband and father of five, he's passionate about inspiring the next generation.

Amy Chaney
Associate Director of Development & Programming
Amy is a globally minded nonprofit leader with experience in cross-cultural work across several countries. A Wheaton and Biola graduate, she’s launching a project for under-resourced children in Africa and volunteers with local refugees. A wife and mother of five, she's passionate about inspiring young people to make a difference.

Chris Haase
Volunteer & Co-curriculum Developer
Chris Haase, a 2022 Wheaton College graduate, serves full-time in the U.S. Army. Passionate about leadership, he co-authored the Core Virtues Curriculum and supports its website and program development. He’s committed to inspiring young people to make a difference.

Paris Haase
Creative Director of Marketing and Events
Paris Haase graduated from Wheaton College in 2023 and began her career as a high school science teacher. She also serves in the Army National Guard and recently returned from deployment. Paris now works part-time as the Marketing Manager for 1833 Leadership Academy, where she oversees social media, events, and creative communications, and also supports My Half of the Sky in Wheaton, IL.

























