Kahleel Odom ’26, a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has been selected for the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights John Lewis Young Leaders (JLYL) Program for the 2025–2026 academic year. Odom, a junior expected to graduate in May 2026, joins an elite cohort of 16 Fellows chosen from more than 550 applicants nationwide.
The John Lewis Young Leaders Program, originally launched in 2017 and redesigned in 2022 to honor the late Congressman and civil rights icon John Lewis, equips undergraduate students with the tools to advance human rights through grassroots organizing and civic engagement. Over the course of the fellowship, Odom and his peers will design and implement a capstone project that addresses a pressing social issue, while receiving mentorship, training, and financial support from RFK Human Rights.
Reflecting on his motivation, Odom shared:
“What motivates me to be a changemaker is the belief that no one should suffer in silence or feel unseen. I’m driven by the desire to create spaces where people feel supported, heard, and empowered to grow beyond their circumstances.”
Past Fellows have created projects spanning topics such as maternal health, anti-ableism advocacy, and documenting infrastructure loss in conflict zones. With this opportunity, Odom will carry forward the Morehouse tradition of developing ethical leaders committed to justice, equity, and service.
By stepping into this national fellowship, Odom not only affirms his personal commitment to community empowerment but also strengthens the College’s enduring legacy of producing leaders who champion social change.
Congratulations Kahleel!