The Leadership Institute for Future Teachers (LIFT) is a six-day, invitational program for students interested in teaching who are rising high school seniors in North Carolina. Over six days in the summer, students delve into the field of education through engaging in field-based school activities, interacting with leaders in education and exploring career options in education and related fields.
“There usually is a moment in life where you realize your dreams can become a reality. LIFT was that for me. I never saw myself as the principal of a school, so it’s amazing to think that this story started with going to visit NC State for a week because I told my 11th grade social studies teacher that I wanted to be a teacher.”
Douglas McCullough ’19MSA
Principal, Salem Middle School and 2005 LIFT Participant
A Look At How LIFT Gives a Lift to Future Educators
Throughout the week, LIFT participants grow their leadership and communication skills, interact with statewide leaders in education and receive mentorship from current NC State College of Education students. Scroll through photos from LIFT 2025.
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“The bond established during the week of LIFT is cultivated and nurtured throughout a LIFT participant’s college experience. This is what makes LIFT not just a one-summer experience for participants but rather a lifelong bond between themselves and the program.”
Anona Smith Williams ’91MS, ’02EDD
Founding Director of LIFT
The History of LIFT
In the summer of 1986, former NC State College of Education Associate Dean Anona Smith Williams ’91MS, ’02EDD led the creation of what would later become the Leadership Institute for Future Teachers. In her own words, she describes how LIFT came to be, why it matters and what she hopes the next generation of LIFT participants take away from the program.
Financial contributions make it possible for us to hold programs like LIFT and prepare extraordinary educators. You can help us inspire more high school seniors to explore careers in education with a gift to support LIFT.
