Human Rights Student Leadership Council is Largest Cohort Yet

The Prince William Human Rights Student Leadership Council, or HRSLC, recently welcomed 99 students to its 11th cohort during an orientation introducing them to the council’s work and what they can expect during the 2026-27 school year. 

Representing students in grades 10 through 12 in public and private high schools and homeschool programs, Cohort 11 is the council’s largest since the program began in 2016. This year’s theme is “Leading with Purpose and Passion.” 

Throughout the program, students will explore topics including equal employment opportunity, fair housing, human trafficking, equity and human rights. They will also put what they learn into practice through volunteer opportunities in the community. 

“Our theme supports our student leaders and encourages our students to focus on elevating the culture of their school and the community through everyday leadership, education, service and character,” said Carolyn Custard, Prince William County Public Schools Liaison.  

During the orientation, county and school leaders introduced students to the council’s mission and encouraged them to approach the program with purpose, engage with different perspectives and use what they learn to strengthen their schools and communities. 

Prince William County Executive Christopher Shorter told the students that their decision to join the council demonstrated that they were already leaders in their schools and communities. 

“Each of you understands that leadership does not begin once you reach a certain age. It does not begin once you get a certain title within your school,” Shorter said in his keynote address. “You don't have to wait until you're an adult or until you're older to make an impact. You can do that right now. That is what you are doing today by being a part of this program.” 

Shorter encouraged students to learn from past human rights advocates, engage with perspectives different from their own and use the council’s curriculum to prepare for difficult conversations they may encounter as future leaders. 

Prince William County Schools Chief Equity Officer, Dr. Charmelle Ackins, served as the guest speaker, following a performance by the Woodbridge Senior High School Singers. Ackins told the students that they were selected because they had demonstrated a willingness to lead, serve and improve their schools and communities. 

“This year's theme, ‘Leading with Purpose and Passion,’ captures two essential qualities that distinguish those who simply hold leadership positions from those who make a lasting difference,” Ackins said. “Purpose gives leadership direction. Passion gives leadership energy. When you bring those two qualities together, something extraordinary happens. Leadership elevates beyond an honorary title and becomes a powerful opportunity to transform the experiences of the people around you.” 

Prince William Human Rights Commission Chair Curtis Porter provided a brief history of the commission, which the Prince William Board of County Supervisors established in 1991. The commission began serving residents in 1993. 

Porter also explained the commission’s role in enforcing human rights protections in Prince William County. 

Prince William County Human Rights Office Executive Director Raul Torres thanked the students and their parents for their commitment to the council and encouraged students to carry what they learn beyond the program. 

“Throughout this program, you will explore civil rights principles, the foundation of our Constitution and the responsibilities that accompany citizenship in a democratic society,” Torres said. “You will learn that freedom, equality and justice are not merely ideals written in historical documents. They are living principles that require vigilance, courage and active participation.” 

Learn more about the Human Rights Commission and the HRSLC at pwcva.gov/humanrights.