Good News! 2025
In this week’s episode of Good News, we meet James R. Woody, the Executive Director of Sutton Scholars, a high school enrichment program sponsored by the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland, as he shares his journey from the corporate world to nonprofit service. Alongside hosts Deacons Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, James discusses the importance of spirituality, leadership, and life skills in transforming the lives of underserved youth in Baltimore. Learn about the unique focus of Sutton Scholars and how the program fosters personal and community growth. Discover how you can support this vital initiative and make a difference.
Highlights from the Podcast
In this episode of “Good News!,” we are introduced to the remarkable journey of James Woody, the Executive Director of Sutton Scholars, an enrichment program for high school students supported by the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland. Join us as we explore how Woody’s inspiring leadership and the Sutton Scholars program are shaping the future of young people in Baltimore.
The Person Behind the Mission
James Woody’s path in life wasn’t always clear. With a background in the corporate sector, Woody faced a pivotal moment when he realized he sought more than profit. His involvement with a homeless shelter in Washington, D.C., led to pivotal leadership roles, including becoming the founding director of the Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys. His dedication to nonprofit service and ministry has been unwavering, fueled by a deep spirituality since his youth.
Woody’s retelling of his spiritual journey at 17, guided by a long friendship with Bishop Eugene Taylor Sutton, highlights the personal evolution that propelled him into his work today. He champions not only educational advancement but also spiritual enrichment as fundamental to life and leadership.
The Sutton Scholars Program: An Oasis for Baltimore Youth
Founded in 2016, the Sutton Scholars Program serves as a beacon for youth in Baltimore. Unlike traditional academic routes, it emphasizes life skills, including communication, financial literacy, and leadership, focusing on underserved young people. The program’s annual six-week summer session offers a curriculum that nurtures these essential soft skills with structured guidance from experienced teachers.
Woody points out the beauty of the program’s adaptability in response to challenges, such as the social impact of the pandemic on youth. Through creative adjustments, the Sutton Scholars Program continues to thrive, now welcoming students from diverse schools and empowering them to become proficient advocates not only for themselves but also for their communities.
Transformative Experiences and Lasting Impacts
The Sutton Scholars’ immersive exposure to enriching experiences, from visiting City Hall to exploring cultural locales and colleges within Baltimore, is transforming perceptions. By witnessing local leaders and institutions at work, students re-evaluate their perspectives on their hometown, discovering the city’s rich potential and opportunities.
James Woody’s leadership has seen Sutton Scholars overcome significant challenges, including adapting recruitment post-pandemic. The program now attracts students through word-of-mouth, a testament to its growing legacy and positive impact.
How You Can Support Sutton Scholars
The program’s outreach relies significantly on financial support, which provides scholarships, field trips, and meals during the intensive summer sessions. Woody encourages contributions through their website, and highlights the value of engaging with youth as guest speakers or mentors.
Words of Wisdom: A Call to Kindness and Leadership
Closing our discussion with poignant advice, Woody emphasizes the importance of kindness. “Strive for success, work hard, have fun, and be kind,” he says, underscoring a mantra of respect and leadership demonstrated by example. His encouragement serves as a powerful reminder that our future lies in nurturing the younger generation with empathy and guidance.
Conclusion
James Woody and the Sutton Scholars Program inspire future leaders by fostering a culture of resilience and hope. Through empowerment and opportunity, they offer a shining example of how impactful community-focused programs can be. We invite you to support their mission and witness the unfolding transformation, as youth across Baltimore rise to become stewards of progress in their communities.
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