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Here's What To Do:
Complete the Request More Information form to be notified when the application opens.
01
Sign Up For Updates
Fill out the request form below to learn more about CEO and receive text updates about the application process. You can do this whether or not the application has opened yet!
02
Start Your Application
When applications open, you’ll get a text with a direct link. Our blind review hides names and personal details, so selection is based on your potential and interest. The application is a simple 6-step process.
03
Submit Before The Application Window Closes
Late submissions won’t be considered. Submit a 150-word personal narrative on why you want to be a part of CEO, complete a character survey, provide the required character references (set by your program), and obtain parent/guardian approval.
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Alumni Testimonials
CEO Alumni bring a unique retrospective to the CEO journey. After experiencing CEO, alumni continue to utilize the skills learned to create an impact in the CEO community and beyond!
Sarah Henke
Edwardsville CEO
Class of 2024
Edwardsville CEO has taught me so many valuable lessons that I can apply to the real world. It has been the highlight of my senior year!
Cooper Wittek
Edwardsville CEO
Class of 2026
Cooper Wittek is a senior at Edwardsville High School. He is a dedicated and active student inside and outside of the classroom. Cooper currently serves as the Vice President of Student Council, Treasurer of the Edwardsville National Honors Society, a member of the National English Honors Society, and President of the Business Professionals of America Chapter, where he helps lead peers in service and professional development opportunities. In addition, he is a varsity athlete in both cross country and track, podiuming and competing in the 3A-Illinois State Finals for both, a statement of his discipline and commitment. When he isn’t running, Cooper is passionate about giving back and volunteers his time to support his school and community. He is also deeply dedicated to his church, where he participates and strengthens his faith through service as a Eucharistic Minister and a Lecturer. Since the beginning of high school, he has been striving to get into the Edwardsville CEO program, and now that he has been accepted, he looks forward to gaining hands-on experience into learning the business world while building skills for future entrepreneurial success. After graduating from Edwardsville High School and completing CEO, Cooper is excited to transfer his athletic and academic talent to the University of Wisconsin-Madison or the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities to pursue a bachelor in Finance and Economics.
Antonella De Avila
Edwardsville CEO
Class of 2026
Antonella De Avila is a senior at Edwardsville High School. Antonella is involved in various clubs and activities. She is president of Spanish Club and is also a member of National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, and National English Honor Society. Antonella is also very involved with the community as she volunteers for Key Club, an organization that specializes in creating a fun and safe environment for kids with disabilities. While those are only some of her activities, one of her favorite activities to do in her free time is podcasting with the Tiger Talk Network. Antonella is also a dancer and she dances at Rena’s Dance Unlimited. After high school, Antonella is going to major in Architecture and hopes to one day have her own company.
Simon Stearns
Edwardsville CEO
Class of 2026
Simon Stearns is a Senior at Edwardsville High School. He is a private pilot and takes every chance he gets to go fly and explore the amazing world of aviation. He is a proud member and youth recruiter for Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 864. He spends his free time playing Boy’s Volleyball for Edwardsville Highschool. Simon is also a member of National Honor Society, Future Aviators Club, Student Council and St. Clair Beekeepers Association. In his free time, he enjoys gardening, beekeeping, and flying RC planes. Simon plans to get a degree in Professional Flight with a minor in Airframe and Powerplant Maintenance. He is grateful to be a part of the CEO program and is looking forward to making a business combining his love for aviation with his love for entrepreneurship.
Schaefer Bates
Edwardsville CEO
Class of 2026
Schaefer Bates is a senior at Edwardsville High School. He spends time on the tennis courts and at the gym. In his free time, Schaefer likes to hang out with his friends, golf, and play pickleball. He is a dedicated podcast host of The Jungle Sports Podcast. He is also a member of the Superintendent Student Advisory Board, Key Club, National Honor Society, Boys Varsity Tennis Team, and Care Closet. He prides himself on being a good communicator who is always looking to learn. Schaefer’s future plan is to get a degree in business and become a successful entrepreneur. Joining the CEO has inspired him to learn how to network and to build connections. Schaefer is excited to see where his journey takes him and is grateful for the opportunities ahead.