Meet Lucy LeMaster: Finding Her Voice Through Leadership

Shadow Mountain High School student Lucy LeMaster is using her creativity and passion for leadership to make a difference as a member of the 2026–27 University of Phoenix LEADS.

Each year, Arizona's top JAG student leaders are selected to serve as the University of Phoenix LEADS, representing more than 1,500 JAG students across the state. Throughout the year, they develop leadership skills, serve their peers, represent JAG Arizona at events, and prepare to compete at the National Career Development Conference (NCDC).

Lucy LeMaster, a student in the Shadow Mountain High School JAG program, is stepping into this year as one of the 2026–27 University of Phoenix LEADS with a goal that goes beyond developing leadership skills. She wants to prove to herself that she can do something challenging and inspire others along the way.

For Lucy, becoming a LEAD represents an opportunity to grow, meet new people, and help make the JAG experience even stronger for future students.

"Being a LEAD means kind of a lot," Lucy said. "It's a chance to better the JAG program, better my leadership skills, meet new people, and prove to myself and others that I can do this."

When she's not in school, Lucy stays busy with Color Guard, writing novels, reading fantasy and fiction, creating crafts, and listening to true crime podcasts. Lucy credits her family for giving her the confidence to pursue new opportunities. She describes her parents as incredibly supportive and says she's especially close with her younger sister, whom she considers her best friend. Living in a home filled with encouragement has helped her believe in herself as she takes on new challenges.

As the school year begins, Lucy hopes every LEAD has the opportunity to contribute, be heard, and be treated equally. She also has high expectations for herself.

"I expect myself to be able to keep up with everything in my life as much as I can," she said. "I know things won't be perfect, but they'll be better than they have been in the past."

Whether she's leading alongside her fellow LEADS, performing with Color Guard, or writing her next story, Lucy is ready to embrace every opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference.

Help Lucy and the 2026–27 University of Phoenix LEADS reach NCDC.

This year, the LEADS are raising $45,000 to cover leadership development, professional attire, and travel to Orlando, where they will represent Arizona at the National Career Development Conference. Learn more HERE!

Support the LEADS and help send Arizona's next generation of leaders to NCDC.