The Future Leaders of Our Waters (FLOW) Fellowship program, offered by the James River Association is a transformative, year-long leadership program designed for high school students (grades 10–12). It aims to empower the next generation of environmental stewards by combining scientific field research with community advocacy. FLOW is designed for curious and passionate high school students in the Richmond region who are ready to commit to a 9-month process of personal and professional growth. It is ideal for those interested in environmental science, social and environmental justice, or community leadership.

The program is structured to move students from classroom learning to real-world impact through three main areas:

• Field Science: Participants learn technical skills such as water quality monitoring, data analysis, and identifying pollution threats (e.g., erosion or illegal discharge).
• Civic Advocacy: Students are trained to become voices for the river, learning how to bridge the gap between environmental science and public policy to influence local change.
• Leadership Development: The program fosters civic agency, teaching students how to manage challenges, collaborate in teams, and lead professional-level projects.

Key Components & Timeline

• Summer Leadership Summit: The program begins with a week-long, non-residential intensive summit held in Richmond.
• Monthly Sessions: From September through April, students attend full-day sessions (8 hours each) on Saturdays at the James A. Buzzard River Education Center.
• Capstone Project: Students commit to a tract—either conservation or advocacy—and collaboratively design and execute a team-based project that addresses a specific environmental issue in the James River watershed.
• Graduation & Symposium: The year concludes with a formal presentation where students share their capstone results with family, peers, and environmental professionals.

Benefits for Students

• Service Hours: Participants earn over 50 hours of community service, helping meet high school graduation requirements.
• Diploma Seals: Completion may make students eligible for the Virginia Department of Education Seal for Excellence in Civics Education and/or the Seal for Excellence in Science and the Environment.
• College & Career Readiness: Students gain access to professional mentorship, networking with environmental leaders, and experiences that strengthen resumes and scholarship essays.
• Cost: The program is free for all accepted participants (though it is selective, typically capped at around 30 students).

Learn more about the Future Leaders of Our Waters Fellowship (link opens in new tab)