Women to Watch Awards Finalists in Education
Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington (GLOW Academy) is a Young Women’s Leadership affiliate school. WILMA magazine selected the school’s Director of College Access, Jahleese Hadley, as a finalist in the Women to Watch Awards’ Education category. WILMA is also honoring GLOW’s founder, Judy Girard, with its Icon Award.
By Dylan Schmidt, Photos by Madeline Gray and Sasha Sheldon
Originally published in WILMA magazine on August 11, 2025
JAHLEESE HADLEY
Director of College Access, GLOW
Describe your role and work that you do.
“I consider myself an education engineer – designing systems that expand opportunity and evolve with student needs. At GLOW (Girls Leadership of Wilmington) Academy, I lead a college access program that spans grades 6-12. Engaging both our families and members of the Wilmington community as critical partners, I build programs that equip students with the tools – and confidence – to navigate their futures with agency and choice.”
What are some of your career highlights so far?
“Some highlights live on resumes – like leading national conferences, launching early college models, or winning awards for innovation and equity. But the moments that stay with me? Watching a first-generation student lead a panel for prospective students. Hearing a parent say, ‘Now I understand FAFSA.’ Seeing ideas I once sketched on whiteboards take flight. Each one is a reminder that thoughtful design can transform lives.”
