Our Story

A Whole-Person Leadership Development Program for Underserved Youth

Founded by Raymond Sozzi, Sr., a first-generation American and former high-tech CEO who rose from working-class beginnings in the Bronx, New York, the Everest Leadership Academy is guided by the belief that every motivated young person deserves the opportunity to unleash their untapped potential to lead.

Our Mission

Equipping and Empowering Every Young Person to Achieve Their Dream of Leadership

The Everest Leadership Academy gives motivated young people the mindsets and skillsets of leaders during their transformative years, when lifelong habits and values are most easily formed.

Built on the conviction that every child deserves the opportunity to achieve their potential, its Whole-Person Leadership Development curriculum places a priority on emotional intelligence and everyday “people skills.”

students collaborating around a table

What We Do

BELIEVE

We work with motivated young people and focus on building the soft skills vital to leadership, beginning with self-awareness and self-management.

PREPARE

Through our curriculum, workshops, and access to successful leaders, we equip students with the skills and habits to navigate challenges with good judgment, integrity, and confidence.

MENTOR

We support young people throughout their leadership journey by providing access to business environments, mentoring, networking opportunities, and a supportive community.

Our Framework

There is a leader in each of us.

silhouettes of people watching a mountain sunrise

Mindsets

  • Hope and optimism
  • Intention and integrity
  • Responsibility and commitment
  • Respect and dignity
  • Humility and vulnerability

Skillsets

  • Academic achievement
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Social skills
  • Entrepreneurial smarts
  • Business smarts

Access

  • Proven tools from leaders who've "been there, done that"
  • First-hand exposure to real business environments
  • Group mentoring from real-world leaders
  • Financial support and scholarships
Raymond Sozzi, Sr. seated in an office

Founder's Message

Raymond Sozzi, Sr.

"After a rewarding career as a CEO in the computer industry, I set out to make a difference for motivated young people in all communities. Our Whole-Person approach to developing leaders equips them for success in any field."
Listen to Ray's Message · 3:42
book cover — The Leader in Each of Us
The Leader in Each of Us
three friends smiling together students talking in a circle students collaborating at a whiteboard group of friends posing together

Leadership Academy Award Ceremonies

The Everest Leadership Academy believes in recognizing leadership excellence.

Frances Hesselbein speaking at a podium
Frances Hesselbein
Lifetime Leadership Award, 2018

Former CEO of the Girl Scouts of America, Frances Hasselbein now serves as President and CEO of her own leadership institute with a mission to inspire leaders in the social sector.

group presenting an award outside L'escale Restaurant
L'escale Restaurant
Exemplary Leadership, 2021

Acclaimed for its fine French cuisine and impeccable service, L’escale demonstrated exceptional commitment, ingenuity, and leadership by continuing to delight their customers with a five-star dining experience during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kathryn Webster receiving an award at a podium
Kathryn Webster
Trailblazer Leadership Award, 2025

As Founder and CEO of the TAD (Together Achieving Dreams) foundation, Kathryn Webster works to ensure equal opportunities for employment and professional advancement for motivated, talented members of the blind and low-vision community.

Meet the Team

We develop leaders based on real world experience.

Ray Sozzi headshot
Raymond Sozzi Sr.
Founder and CEO
Sabrina Shortall headshot
Sabrina Shortall
Director of Strategic Marketing & Operations
Sean Tummins headshot
Sean Tummins
Director of Technology and Business Development
Michael Sozzi headshot
Michael Sozzi
Director of Student Life

Advisory Board

Greg Taylor headshot
Greg Taylor
Operating Executive, Investor, Board Member
Marcia Radosevich headshot
Marcia Radosevich
Healthcare Entrepreneur, Investor, Board Member
Dave Fall headshot
Dave Fall
Digital Media Executive
Eliot Powell headshot
Eliot Powell
CIO, City of Baltimore
Aramide O. Olaniyan headshot
Aramide O. Olaniyan
Vice President, Summit Partners