Recent graduates Deandre Cole and Walter Jackson have been friends for almost 10 years. They enjoy playing basketball and video games and celebrating milestones with each other. They also both served as strong student leaders for the Mansueto High School community.

“As long as I can remember, their teachers would always tell Tangee and Walter and myself that they are leaders of the classroom and are always willing to help others,” said Deandre’s mom, Sheena Johnson.

For their senior year, Deandre and Walter served as co-captains of the boys’ varsity basketball team, mentored their underclassmen, and actively participated in many other clubs and enrichment programs (including Blaq Vibez Club, E-Sports Club, and the SAT Prep enrichment). While they were both engaged leaders in these spaces, they showed up in different ways.

Walter is a vibrant speaker with a strong sense of justice. You could often find him speaking to underclassmen about the importance of education and effort or attending after-school events to cheer on his fellow Leopards.

Deandre, on the other hand, shows up more quietly. He is a calm and steady leader committed to helping others thrive. He was often found helping his peers with assignments or taking the lead on projects in classes and clubs.

Despite being different in their approach to leadership, they both inspire each other to be better leaders.

“We have been friends for a long time and have always wanted the best outcome for each other and others around us. We believe that everyone deserves success and happiness, and that has helped us advocate and communicate as leaders,” Deandre said.

Learn more about Walter and Deandre and their leadership:

Born and raised in Chicago and the youngest of three brothers, Walter has always had a family-first mentality. His goal is to make his family proud. When Walter is not focusing on academics, you can find him streaming video games, working out at the gym, or hanging out downtown. His favorite teacher is Ms. Villagrana because he says she has always been on his side, motivating him to chase his dreams.

Walter chooses to lead because he wants to effect positive change in his community.

“I will fight for what I think is right and develop intelligent ways to bring forth positive change in my community, even at the anger of others who may disagree,” Walter said. He particularly wants to fight for community opportunities within struggling neighborhoods. Walter believes regardless of where someone comes from, they are capable of achieving their goals, no matter how big they are.

“If you put yourself around good people, whether it’s your family, school, or workplace, anything is possible. That’s why we need to continue to build our communities together,” Walter said.

Both his teachers and peers recognize his passion and positivity.

“Walter possesses a vibrant personality that effortlessly lights up any room he enters. His commitment to doing what is right is unwavering, and his focused, hardworking nature serves as an inspiration for his peers,” said Mrs. Odekerken, one of Walter’s previous teachers.

Walter’s biggest inspiration for leadership is his father, who he says is a beacon of strength and wisdom. He has often seen his father show up confidently and warmly in all his interactions with others.

“Witnessing my father engage with people has taught me the true essence of leadership. His confidence and warmth create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. This approach not only builds strong relationships but also develops trust and respect, which are crucial for effective leadership,” Walter said.

Walter tries to emulate that confidence in his leadership. He says he makes a conscious effort to both speak up confidently and listen deeply.

“In my own journey as a leader, I make a conscious effort to speak up and share my opinions in class, ensuring my voice is heard. I also prioritize listening to my peers and incorporating their perspectives into my decision-making process. When I have concerns, I approach teachers directly and speak with courage, just as my father would. This balance of assertiveness and attentiveness helps me lead with integrity and inclusivity,” Walter said.

Walter grew a lot in his leadership skills during his time at Mansueto. In particular, he recalled a time when, during a basketball game, he was able to talk his teammates through a win against a school they’d had trouble winning against for a long time. Down by five in the last minute, he gathered everyone in a timeout and told them, “It’s not over; don’t give up.” The Leopards went on to get three steals and three buckets in a row to snatch the win as time expired. It was the first time in school history that Mansueto had beaten Back of the Yards College Prep in basketball. Walter felt like he was able to build trust with others through this experience, and it was one of the first times he felt like he had people look to him for advice and guidance.

In the fall, Walter will attend the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign on a full-ride scholarship to study business. He says he will continue his leadership journey by being active in student organizations related to business and entrepreneurship.

“I plan to seek out leadership positions within these organizations, where I can apply the skills and experiences I’ve gained at Mansueto,” Walter said. “Whether it’s organizing events, leading projects, or mentoring fellow students, I’m eager to continue making a positive impact and further develop my leadership abilities.”

Deandre grew up on the South Side of Chicago with his mother. He is an only child who has always enjoyed academics. When he’s not at school, Deandre is often found playing basketball, working, or listening to music. His favorite teacher is Ms Carty because she has always been honest and given him great feedback.

Deandre chooses to lead because he wants to inspire others in his community. At Mansueto, when he saw no one else stepping up, he was always ready to leap in.

“Being a leader to me means being able to help and motivate people in the right direction so they can thrive in whatever they are doing,” Deandre said.

As a young Black leader, Deandre says he sometimes encounters problems where he is not listened to or taken seriously. He is determined to overcome those barriers.

“To overcome stereotypes with being a young Black leader, you have to make your voice stronger—talk more confidently and respectfully so you can address those stereotypes head-on,” Deandre said.

He says one person who inspires him in this work is his cousin Keyonte. Even though his cousin lives in another state, Deandre said Keyonte continuously called him to let him know he is capable of becoming a successful leader, regardless of stereotypes.

“Having someone I can call, text, and rely on every day has helped me build trust in and receive guidance for my motivation . I know that even in tough times, I have someone to lean on,” Deandre said.

Deandre also felt like he grew in his leadership at Mansueto. He recalled a time when he spoke to 20-25 underclassmen and told them his personal story. This made him feel like he had a bigger purpose. Through this experience, he learned that his story can be helpful and that he can help lead others to the right path in different life endeavors.

While Deandre’s leadership shows up more subtly, it doesn’t go unnoticed on campus.

“Deandre leads not through loud proclamation but rather by example, embodying a calm yet resolute demeanor that commands respect. He readily lends a helping hand whenever it’s needed, embodying the true spirit of community,” said Breonna Odekerken, a dean of instruction at Mansueto.

In the fall, Deandre will attend the University of Illinois Chicago to study computer science. He was chosen as one of 750 scholars (chosen from an application pool of 53,000 students) from across the nation to receive The Gates Scholarship, so his study will also be completely paid for. He says he will continue to be a leader by joining clubs at UIC, coming back to speak at Mansueto, and making his family proud.

Both Walter and Deandre are excited for the future and to continue to build their bond through college.

“Regardless of where we end up, I know our brotherhood is different than most. We are excited for each other and all the success we will be a part of at our universities,” Walter said.

“Walter knows that I am a text, call, or short drive away. I know we will continue to build memories together, even in separate cities,” Deandre said.

The impact that Deandre and Walter have made at Mansueto will still be felt even after they leave.

“These two young men have impacted my life in so many ways outside of education,” said Jose Arteaga, Deandre and Walter’s advisor and basketball coach. “They have taught me to speak up for what you believe in and that there is always room for improvement (which I believe comes from their wonderful families). It has been an honor to be their advisor, coach, and instructor.”