Chris Burton, director of the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary, has been selected for the 2025-26 class of the Obama Foundation Leaders program.

Burton is among more than 200 people chosen for the program and one of just over 100 participating in the Leaders USA track, which provides training in leadership development and civic engagement. The six-month program includes weekly virtual sessions, mentorship opportunities and special events designed to help participants expand their impact across public, private and nonprofit sectors. 

At UPSem, Burton oversees continuing education and certificate programs that support pastors, educators and community partners, including returning citizens, in developing leadership skills. His responsibilities include managing professional development programs and coordinating educational initiatives for various community groups. 

He has led initiatives such as the Remix Project, a hip-hop education course developed with a Henderson Middle School teacher and a nationally certified counselor to support students’ social and emotional growth. Burton has also worked with local schools and community organizations to develop educational programming that addresses social and emotional learning needs. 

The Leaders USA program, now in its third year, draws on the Obama Foundation’s Hope to Action curriculum and emphasizes strengthening democratic culture. Participants focus on areas including civic engagement, public health, climate sustainability, and arts and culture. The program provides training sessions and networking opportunities for participants throughout the six-month period. 

The Obama Foundation Leaders program connects emerging leaders from Africa, the Asia-Pacific, Europe and the United States to foster collaboration and drive community change. For more