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Here's What To Do:
Complete the Request More Information form to be notified when the application opens.
01
Sign Up For Updates
Fill out the request form below to learn more about CEO and receive text updates about the application process. You can do this whether or not the application has opened yet!
02
Start Your Application
When applications open, you’ll get a text with a direct link. Our blind review hides names and personal details, so selection is based on your potential and interest. The application is a simple 6-step process.
03
Submit Before The Application Window Closes
Late submissions won’t be considered. Submit a 150-word personal narrative on why you want to be a part of CEO, complete a character survey, provide the required character references (set by your program), and obtain parent/guardian approval.
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Alumni Testimonials
CEO Alumni bring a unique retrospective to the CEO journey. After experiencing CEO, alumni continue to utilize the skills learned to create an impact in the CEO community and beyond!
Sanaa Johnson
Edwardsville CEO
Class of 2024
l joined CEO because I wanted an inside scoop on how the business world works. Little did I know that I would also gain an invaluable amount of lessons and great experiences!
Jack Alexander
Edwardsville CEO
Class of 2026
Jack Alexander is a senior at Edwardsville high school and a proud member of the CEO program. He previously played football and wrestled for his school and currently works part-time as a lifeguard and swim instructor at the Edwardsville YMCA. Jack enjoys lifting weights and working on cars in his free time. For the past seven years, he has volunteered with his mother for the “I Support The Girls” charity, helping pack and transport donations to events, pantries, and storage facilities. He plans to attend Southern Illinois University Carbondale to study Aviation with a minor in Finance, with the goal of becoming a commercial pilot. Jack is excited to be a part of the CEO program to build lifelong connections and gain hands-on experience in entrepreneurship.
Andrew Adams
Edwardsville CEO
Class of 2026
Andrew is a senior at Metro East Lutheran High School. He plays on the football team, baseball team, and the band, playing saxophone at his school. He’s a captain on the football team and is also a member of National Honors Society. During his free time Andrew loves spending time with family and friends, playing frisbee golf, and going fishing. He also loves his job at Walmart and working with a local contractor in Edwardsville over the summer. After high school, Andrew plans on going to SIUE and getting a degree in construction management. He’s excited to see how CEO will broaden his perspective on entrepreneurship and help him make connections in the community.
Simon Stearns
Edwardsville CEO
Class of 2026
Simon Stearns is a Senior at Edwardsville High School. He is a private pilot and takes every chance he gets to go fly and explore the amazing world of aviation. He is a proud member and youth recruiter for Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 864. He spends his free time playing Boy’s Volleyball for Edwardsville Highschool. Simon is also a member of National Honor Society, Future Aviators Club, Student Council and St. Clair Beekeepers Association. In his free time, he enjoys gardening, beekeeping, and flying RC planes. Simon plans to get a degree in Professional Flight with a minor in Airframe and Powerplant Maintenance. He is grateful to be a part of the CEO program and is looking forward to making a business combining his love for aviation with his love for entrepreneurship.
Schaefer Bates
Edwardsville CEO
Class of 2026
Schaefer Bates is a senior at Edwardsville High School. He spends time on the tennis courts and at the gym. In his free time, Schaefer likes to hang out with his friends, golf, and play pickleball. He is a dedicated podcast host of The Jungle Sports Podcast. He is also a member of the Superintendent Student Advisory Board, Key Club, National Honor Society, Boys Varsity Tennis Team, and Care Closet. He prides himself on being a good communicator who is always looking to learn. Schaefer’s future plan is to get a degree in business and become a successful entrepreneur. Joining the CEO has inspired him to learn how to network and to build connections. Schaefer is excited to see where his journey takes him and is grateful for the opportunities ahead.