On March 25, the Bauer Leaders Academy welcomed Tishaura Jones for a Leadership Up Close conversation focused on leadership in public service, civic engagement, and career pathways in politics.

Jones shared her personal journey into leadership, offering insight into how she became involved in politics and the experiences that shaped her path to becoming Mayor of St. Louis. Students were particularly engaged in learning about her early career, the challenges she faced along the way, and the persistence required to lead within complex systems.

The session sparked strong interest among attendees, many of whom expressed how much they appreciated hearing her story firsthand. Her emphasis on resilience, community impact, and staying committed to one’s purpose resonated deeply with students exploring their own leadership paths.

Programs like Leadership Up Close provide WashU students with direct access to influential leaders, helping them better understand the many ways leadership can take shape across industries and communities.