HOBY Ohio West: Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders Today
Each spring, over 10,000 high school sophomores nationwide take part in one of HOBY’s 70 State Leadership Seminars—including right here in Ohio West! These transformative weekends help students recognize their leadership potential and learn how to lead with integrity at home, in school, at work, and in their communities.
What Is the State Leadership Seminar (LS)?
The State Leadership Seminar is HOBY’s signature experience for high school sophomores. Rooted in the Social Change Model of Leadership, the program guides students through three key dimensions of leadership:
- Personal Leadership – Understanding your values and strengths
- Group Leadership – Collaborating effectively with others
- Leadership for Society – Driving positive change in your community



What Do Students Do at LS?
Over four action-packed days, students dive into hands-on workshops, team challenges, and inspiring discussions. They’ll explore their unique leadership style, build lasting friendships, and leave with the tools to make a real impact in their schools and communities.
Who Can Attend?
This opportunity is exclusively for high school sophomores—so if you’re in 10th grade, don’t miss your chance! Interested students should talk to their school counselor to get started.
When and Where?
HOBY Ohio West’s seminar 2026 will be June 4-7, 2026 at Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio
📝 How to Register
Students must be nominated by their school. Once selected, school counselors or administrators will use their HOBY school ID and password to register students through our online system. If you’re ready to lead, start by visiting your counselor!
What is the registration fee?
The registration fee for students registered before the Guaranteed Acceptance Deadline (12/12/2025) is $375. The registration fee for students registered after the Guaranteed Acceptance Deadline is $400. Financial assistance may be available (link to the Scholarship Request form). The registration fee includes 4-day lodging, all meals, educational training materials, and more. The only thing not included is transportation to/from the seminar and personal spending money for optional photos and souvenirs.
What if the student selected can no longer attend the seminar?
We encourage you to select alternate students in addition to your primary for exactly this reason. It’s important to loop both your registered and alternate(s) into details around the seminar and set a date by which the selected student should decide if they’re going to attend. If your selected student does end up coming to seminar, the alternate should know they are welcome to come too if they are able to pay their registration fee. Please note: Per HOBY National, we are not able to refund the registration fee if your selected student is unable to attend. However, the registration fee can be transferred to an alternate student.
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