Chris Burton
2025-2026 Obama Foundation USA Leader
Director of Leadership Institute, Union Presbyterian Seminary
Richmond, Virginia
Chris Burton is the director of the leadership institute at the Union Presbyterian Seminary, where he runs a continuing education program and a certificate program within the prison ministry for incarcerated youth to develop their leadership skills and prepare them for successful reentry into society. He worked with The Henderson School to create the Remix Project, a hip-hop education course aimed at fostering emotional development in middle school students. Chris aspires to open a school grounded in hip-hop education and social-emotional learning, and he received an innovation grant that he is using towards curriculum creation.
Meet the 2025-2026 United States Leaders
More about the Leaders Program
Leaders
For emerging leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the common good.
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- The Center
- Building the Center
Join other Obama alumni in coming together to support the naming of the Water Terrace at the Obama Presidential Center in honor of the life and legacy of President Obama’s mother, Ann Dunham—as a gift for the President’s 61st birthday.
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- Defending Democracy
- Leaders
- Watch
- Barack Obama
Watch President Obama share his vision for the Obama Presidential Center during a surprise visit with supporters and stakeholders—a vision for a public space that will honor history, help revitalize the South Side, and connect people throughout the communi
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