Leigh Nunez
Executive Council at Ridgeland HS
Doctor of Education in Professional Studies
Madison, MS
Leigh Nuñez is a passionate educator and lifelong learner who believes in equipping students to lead, collaborate, and make meaningful change in their communities. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Leigh holds a B.A. in History from Christian Brothers University, a J.D. and Diploma in Comparative Law from LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center, an M.S. in Education from Johns Hopkins University, and an M.Ed. in Special Education from Delta State University.
Her journey into education began unexpectedly—during an Equal Justice Works conference in Washington, D.C., she sat down at the Teach For America table between law firm interviews and realized she didn’t want to speak for others in a courtroom. She wanted to help young people find and use their own voices.
Leigh joined Teach For America in 2014 and has spent the last several years teaching English at Ridgeland High School (RHS), where she also serves as the Student Government Association sponsor. She lives in Ridgeland with her husband Eduardo, and three daughters.
Project: Executive Council at Ridgeland High School
In response to declining student participation in extracurriculars and a lack of leadership capacity among student organizations, Leigh launched the Executive Council—a student leadership group made up of representatives from all clubs and organizations at RHS.
With collaboration from fellow TFA Graduate Fellow AK Horlock, Leigh designed a yearlong leadership development experience. Students participated in five themed workshops on communication, time management, planning, reflection, and celebration, as well as a full-day leadership retreat. The initiative focused on equipping students with the confidence, tools, and skills to lead their own organizations effectively—transforming clubs from teacher-led to truly student-driven.
The project engaged 35 invited student leaders, with 20 participating actively throughout the year. Students reported gains in communication, empathy, responsibility, and initiative. In post-surveys, they gave the program a 4.8/5 rating, with many expressing interest in expanding the initiative next year.
Impact & What’s Next
Looking ahead, Leigh and the Executive Council plan to formalize the group as an official club, host a summer workshop, and offer flexible meeting times to accommodate busy student schedules. The focus will continue to be on team-building, professionalism, and onboarding rising leaders, including freshmen.
“The most important insight I gained was learning what student leaders actually need to be successful. This wasn’t just about teaching leadership—it was about creating space for students to grow, reflect, and support one another. And I grew right alongside them.” – Leigh Nuñez
With the support of her TFA Graduate Fellowship mentor, Reagan Pugh, Leigh refined her approach to leadership, time management, and project sustainability—ensuring that student voice remains at the center of school culture at Ridgeland High.