Emory Eagle Edge and Emory Alum, Corey Spraggins created the Leadership Ambassador program which began in Spring 2025. The Leadership Ambassador program is an exclusive opportunity to develop as a leader and gain valuable skills that will serve our athletes' well-being both on and off the court or field. It is centered around intentional growth, meaningful mentorship, and practical leadership development. Through guided conversations, self-reflection, and real-world application, Eagle Edge is helping students find their voice, clarify their goals, and step confidently into leadership — in sport, in school, and in life. This past Fall, the program participants included Ethan Fauss (MBB), Riley Miller (WSO), and Katherine Martini (WBB). 

Ethan Fauss- Men's Basketball

Ethan strengthened his awareness of how powerful and influential his voice can be.

"Sometimes you forget the impact you can have on your teammates and Corey did a great job of reminding me that everything I say can have a strong impact on the rest of the team. One of the things we worked on was how to use your voice as a productive measure to become a better leader."

Fauss was working through his goals and daily experiences with Corey, helping him realize how much room there was for growth and how he can be a leader in his everyday life.

As far as his career aspirations, the program showed the direct correlation it has with Ethan's athletic and professional goals, particularly in basketball. He gained clarity on what leadership truly looks like in practice and how communication, accountability, and mindset translate both on the court and into his future career.

As far as the future goes, Ethan believes that "Eagle Edge should continue the Leadership Ambassador Program. It was super powerful and inspirational for me and taught me a lot about what it means to be a leader. I think it is a great way to grow as a person and have a greater impact on your sport and your future."

Riley Miller- Women's Soccer

Most importantly for Riley, she learned how important it is to slow down and that it is okay to not have everything figured out right away. She also recognized the importance of having a mentor. 

"Having someone who genuinely wanted the best for me, listened to my ideas, challenged my thinking, and offered honest advice helped me feel more confident in my decisions. The program gave me time and structure to reflect on what I want, talking through my priorities, and how to break big goals into smaller, more manageable steps."

Miller got so much out of being able to openly discuss her goals, future, and all the uncertainty with someone like Corey, who has navigated similar experiences. The support boosted her confidence and made her feel more comfortable on her path now and for the future. 

"This program fits with my career goals because it really got me thinking about myself, my priorities, and what I want to work toward. It helped me set goals, make more intentional choices, and figure out what motivates me — stuff that's useful no matter what I end up doing."

Miller found the program incredibly valuable because it gives students access to an experienced mentor who can provide guidance, perspective, and honest advice. 

"Even now, I still feel like I have someone I can go to with questions about school, careers, or life in general. That ongoing support is rare and meaningful. Additionally, learning from Corey — including reading his book now — has helped me learn more about myself and how I want to grow as a leader. Programs like this make a real difference, and I strongly believe Eagle Edge should continue offering it." 

The Leadership Ambassador Program is just one example of how Eagle Edge delivers on its promise: creating powerful opportunities that connect current student-athletes with the tools, people, and platforms they need to thrive beyond the game. By pairing students with passionate alumni like Spraggins, Eagle Edge ensures leadership development isn't theoretical—it's personal, practical, and purpose-driven.

Through mentorship, reflection, and real-world experience, the Fall 2025 cohort of Leadership Ambassadors turned potential into power—and proved once again that Emory Eagles soar well beyond the field of play.