Overview

Far more than counselors or guides, Overland’s leaders are wonderful role models for our students. Bright, charismatic and accomplished, our leaders ensure the safety and well-being of every Overland student, and then they provide much, much more, inspiring our students to reach for their potential in every way.

We recruit our leaders from America’s finest colleges and universities, spending eight months a year meeting with hundreds of campus leaders across the country—an effort that generates over 600 applications for just 60 leadership positions. Our screening and selection process is rigorous and thorough: we require a lengthy application, written references, four background checks (driving record, police record, CORI and SORI) and an in-person, face-to-face interview. No other organization of our kind invests the resources that we do to put together the finest summer leadership staff possible. For over two decades, the quality of our leaders has made the difference for us as an organization—and for the 13,000+ students who have joined us.

“Lucy could not say enough about the kindness and support of her leaders.” Liza Barrett, Williamstown, Massachusetts

Dynamic & Talented

You won’t find a more dynamic and talented group of people than Overland’s leaders. Most Overland leaders have played varsity sports and many have captained their teams; they have served as student government officers, volunteered as peer counselors and directed campus organizations. Many have graduated with honors, and a good number over the years have been valedictorians. Their career plans typically involve graduate school in medicine, law, teaching or business. They are high achievers who come to Overland with a lifetime of leadership experience—but just as importantly, they are warm, wonderful people who are eager to work with Overland’s students.

“I loved my leaders!” Caroline Dooley, Charlotte, North Carolina

Prepared & Focused

Overland’s leaders prepare carefully for the summer. We know of no other program that requires certification in First Aid, CPR and lifesaving—every Overland leader has all of these plus our own 10-day training program that focuses on safety, supervision and leadership. All of our efforts prepare Overland’s caring and committed leaders to create safe, supportive and valuable programs where each of our students can flourish.

In recent years the Overland staff has counted among its accomplishments and accolades:

• 100% have led one or more school or college organizations
• Over 90% have been varsity athletes
• Over 80% have graduated with honors
• Over 70% have been varsity captains
• Over 60% have served as peer counselors
• But most importantly, every year over 95% receive top marks from their Overland students.

In a world where strong leadership skills make the difference between the average and the exceptional, Overland recruits and trains only the best to be our leaders. Not only do these remarkable people capably lead our groups, they also offer our students the kind of role modeling for which Overland has long been recognized.

“Max's leaders really appreciated the skills of each kid on the trip and made Max feel really good about what he is capable of — both on and off the bike. I can't thank them enough for that.” Tanah Kalb, Westport, Connecticut