Our next Spring 2025 grad, Bentley Duvall, took the transformative character building experiences he valued as a youth in band to a new level as he now serves as a band instructor to youth in turn.
A groundbreaking leadership development program has officially launched, with one bold mission: to transform how young people think, lead, and live. The Duvall Leadership Academy, founded by Bentley Duvall Tanner, introduces a unique methodology that harnesses the high-energy, discipline, and precision of Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching bands to create transformative leadership experiences for students aged 13-18.
Breaking the Mold of Traditional Leadership Training
While most youth leadership programs focus on surface-level concepts and motivational quotes, this new initiative dives deep into the psychology of leadership, helping students identify and overcome the mental barriers that limit their success. The program’s founder recognized that true leadership development requires more than inspiration—it demands a fundamental shift in how young people think about themselves and their capabilities.
“This isn’t just about leadership titles—it’s about life,” says founder Bentley Tanner. “By combining the infectious energy and unwavering discipline of marching band culture, we’re creating an environment where students don’t just learn about leadership—they embody it.”
The Marching Band Connection
The program’s innovative approach draws from the rich tradition of Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching bands, institutions known for developing exceptional discipline, teamwork, and performance excellence. Students experience the same high standards, precision, and collective energy that make these musical organizations legendary, while applying these principles to personal development and leadership skills.
The Duvall Leadership Academy offers:
- Workshops and trainings for student leaders and youth organizations
- A flagship 12-week Supercharged Leadership Program focused on identity, self-discipline, and real-world leadership tools
- The Off-Season Program for personal development outside the performance schedule—ideal for band members and student-athletes alike
- Access to a growing scholarship fund and college readiness resources for student leaders planning to attend HBCU
Whether students are stepping onto a band field, into a classroom, or toward their future, Duvall Leadership Academy is equipping them with the mindset, tools, and energy to lead with purpose—and to live like it.
Meeting the Moment
With today’s young people facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities, traditional leadership development approaches often fall short of creating lasting transformation. This program addresses that gap by combining the proven community-building and excellence standards of marching band culture with cutting-edge understanding of how mindset change actually occurs.
“We live in a time when young people need more than motivation—they need transformation,” said Bentley Tanner. “They need to understand not just what leaders do, but how leaders think. That’s where real change happens.”
Program Launch and Availability
The Duvall Leadership Academy is now piloting its first of many programs and workshops. More training sessions, and online components are being rolled out in phases, with initial focus on high school marching band leaders and programs.
If you would like to experience this transformative leadership development, we have an exciting opportunity for you! The Duvall Leadership Academy is hosting its first Duvall Leadership Summit on July 15th, 2025. This summit is for students aged 13 to 18 who are currently leaders in band programs or interested in learning what it takes to be a leader. There will be high-energy workshops, games, a leadership panel, prize giveaways, and more! To learn more about this opportunity or to register your student visit our Leadership Academy Page.
Organizations interested in bringing our programs and/or workshops to their students, or young people ready to transform their leadership potential, can learn more at Bentleyduvall.com.
Contact:
Bentley Duvall Tanner
Founder, Duvall Leadership Academy
Bentleyduvallco@gmail.com
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