About the John R. Elliott Character & Leadership Program

The John R. Elliott Character & Leadership program is dedicated to the memory of Navy Ensign John R. Elliott of Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey a distinguished graduate of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, who was named the Outstanding HERO of his graduating class for his service as a Human Education Resource Officer in the Academy’s Character Development Program.

Tragically, John’s life was cut short in July, 2000, two months after his graduation, in a head-on collision with a drunken driver. John was travelling home from Annapolis for his mother’s birthday at the time of his death. In his memory, the John R. Elliott HERO Campaign for Designated Drivers®, and state and federal John’s Law legislation, has sought to save lives by promoting the use of safe and sober designated drivers. The campaign partners with schools, colleges, law enforcement, bar and tavern owners, NFL and Major league baseball teams, and families of DUI victims. The HERO Campaign and Stockton University have a longstanding relationship, and the university has been the home of the campaign since 2010.

The Elliott Leadership Program is a certification program that is inspired and based in part by the Naval Academy’s Capstone Officer Leadership Seminars which are presented in memory of Ensign John R. Elliott. 

The program will focus on the following themes:

• Values
• Integrity
• Empathy
• Dedication
• Teamwork
• Service