Student Life

Character Development

Fostering Integrity and Leadership in Young Men

Who are you, and who do you want to become? How do you get there? These are just a few of the questions discussed during Riverside’s weekly character development convocations.

Riverside's Character Development program exists to equip our corps of cadets with the vocabulary and tools to reason morally and think critically about their world. Every student is challenged to look deeply at themselves and grapple with tough ethical questions through a series of interactive lectures, multimedia presentations, and live interviews with staff and alumni – all focused on the process of growing from teenage boys into fine young men of character.

The sessions are designed to extend the lessons already contained in the academic curriculum and barracks life, and to give cadets explicit examples of ethical behavior in real life contexts while setting the standard for behavior.

“Looking back on my past six years here, I would absolutely do it again. Given the opportunity to go to a public school or go to any other kind of education, I would come back here because I know that I'm set up for the rest of my life with the skills I've learned.”
Caleb Baker ‘24

Character Development FAQs

List of 6 frequently asked questions.

How does Riverside measure the impact of its character development program?

We assess the impact of our character development program through a combination of self-reflections, mentor feedback, peer reviews, and behavioral observations. This multifaceted approach helps us gauge cadets' growth in understanding and applying ethical principles in their daily lives.
How are cadets and alumni chosen to participate in live interviews?

Cadets and alumni are selected based on their exemplary demonstration of the character traits we aim to instill, such as integrity, leadership, and service. We also look for individuals who have shown remarkable growth during their time at Riverside or have inspiring stories to share.
How often do cadets participate in character development sessions?

Our character development convocations are held weekly, ensuring that cadets regularly engage with important ethical discussions and have consistent exposure to character-building activities.
Are there any specific character development activities for younger cadets?

Yes, we tailor some of our character development activities to meet the unique needs and understanding levels of younger cadets. This ensures that all students, regardless of age, benefit from our program and grow in their personal and ethical development.
How is character development integrated into the academic curriculum?

Character development themes are woven into various academic subjects, encouraging cadets to apply ethical reasoning and critical thinking across disciplines. For example, literature classes may explore moral dilemmas in classic texts, while history lessons might examine the character of historical figures.
What recognition do cadets receive for their growth in character development?

Cadets demonstrating significant growth in character and ethical leadership are recognized during convocations, award ceremonies, and through specific accolades like the "Character Excellence Award." Such recognition celebrates cadets' commitment to personal development and their positive impact on the Riverside community.