schooltoursofamerica

 

School Tours of America

Leadership Program

 

 

About the Program

STA offers an exclusive program that brings lessons of character, leadership, and citizenship to life through an engaging, interactive 45-minute presentation. What makes this experience truly powerful isn’t a list of accolades, it’s the personal connection. Major General Andrew W. O’Donnell Jr. shares honest, relatable stories from his own middle school years, speaking candidly about moving often, feeling out of place, and overcoming challenges many students recognize as their own.

His message of resilience and purpose resonates deeply as students actively participate throughout the presentation and receive a custom challenge coin symbolizing the values he inspires. The impact continues beyond the stage, as he invites questions and personally greets each student, reinforcing confidence, respect, and the importance of strong eye contact.

Tailored for any grade level, this STA exclusive creates a meaningful, memorable experience your students will carry with them long after the trip ends. Connect with your Tour Coordinator to learn how to add this powerful program to your next journey.

STA Leadership Program Blog

 

 

Major General Andrew O' Donnell

 
 
Major General Andrew W. O’Donnell, Jr., inspires students with compelling firsthand stories from his distinguished 35+-year career in the United States Marine Corps. A decorated veteran, he served as “The President’s Pilot,” flying the Marine One helicopter for two U.S. Presidents.  He also served as the Deputy Chief of Staff and Military Advisor at the United States Mission to the United Nations in New York City.
 
 
 
 
His leadership roles include Commanding General of all Marine Corps and United Kingdom Aviation in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, Commanding General of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing in San Diego, and Deputy Commander of US Forces, Japan. A graduate of the Marine Corps Executive Fellowship at the RAND Corporation, the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course, and the Marine Corps Command and Staff College, Major General O’Donnell received the Alfred A. Cunningham Award as the Marine Corps’ Aviator of the Year in 2000. Over the course of his career, he accumulated more than 5,600 flight hours in Marine aircraft.

 

 

Challenge Coins

 

In the military, challenge coins are a long-standing tradition. They are given by  a commander to recognize an act of excellence or bravery, and only a commander has the authority to present one. The gesture is meaningful, not only as recognition for the individual but also as a way to inspire others to rise to the same standard.

The challenge coin represents the program's three core pillars:  Character, Leadership, and Citizenship. Major General O'Donnell presents the coins as part of his Conversation with the General, because it IS a conversation. Not a lecture, not a class. The coin serves as a tangible reminder of the message the students hear that day, something they can carry with them as they move into high school or beyond.

 

 

 

Why Leadership?

A lesson in leadership helps students see what’s possible for their own lives by showing how character, responsibility, and perseverance shape real-world success. It reinforces that leadership isn’t about titles, but about the everyday choices we make. When students learn from authentic experiences, they build confidence, develop purpose, and gain the skills to lead themselves and others both in and out of the classroom. For teachers, this experience strengthens classroom learning while providing a powerful example students will remember long after the trip ends. It's an engaging way to inspire confidence, encourage thoughtful decision-making, and nurture future leaders.

 

 

 

 

This is an experience your travelers should not miss!

Ask your Tour Coordinator about adding this STA exclusive to your next trip.