Student Life Emerging Leaders Academy

Student Life staff have the opportunity to participate in a leadership development program for the 2026-27 academic year.
The SL Emerging Leaders Academy is a career opportunity to division leaders and aspiring leaders interested in building a leadership foundation to lead self, others and an organization. Participants will be actively engaged through discussions and presentations.
Program Dates
Friday, Sept. 11
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 9
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 13
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 11
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 8
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 12
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Friday, March 12
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Friday, April 9
12 - 1:30 p.m.
Awards Ceremony
Program Overview
Learning outcomes
Personal Mastery
- Develop and articulate a personal leadership philosophy.
- Demonstrate emotional intelligence through self-awareness, empathy and effective self‑management.
- Apply a growth mindset by seeking feedback, engaging in continuous learning and showing resilience in the face of challenges.
- Practice ethical judgment and integrity in decision-making and daily work.
Relational Leadership
- Communicate clearly, inclusively and effectively across diverse settings and audiences.
- Listen actively and provide constructive, supportive feedback.
- Build and sustain collaborative relationships across departments and roles.
- Support others’ development through coaching and mentoring practices.
- Promote belonging by applying DEIB principles to team interactions, decision‑making and problem-solving.
Insight and Agility
- Apply strategic thinking to align work and decisions with organizational goals and priorities.
- Use analytical thinking to solve problems and make informed, timely decisions.
- Adapt to change with resilience and flexibility, maintaining effectiveness during ambiguity or transition.
- Anticipate challenges and opportunities and adjust approaches accordingly.
Operational Excellence
- Manage time, tasks and projects effectively to deliver goals and expectations.
- Lead or support change initiatives by communicating clearly, preparing others and navigating transition with confidence.
- Use digital tools and data-informed practices to enhance productivity, teamwork and organizational efficiency.
- Organize workflows and processes to contribute to a high-performing Student Life environment.
Competencies
Personal Mastery
- Emotional Intelligence (EQ): Self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy and social skills to build strong relationships and navigate complex interpersonal dynamics.
- Growth Mindset: A commitment to continuous learning, self-reflection and seeking feedback.
- Ethical Judgment and Integrity: Acting with honesty, transparency and accountability.
Relational Leadership
- Communication Skills: Clear, concise and persuasive communication—both verbal and written. Active listening is equally important.
- Coaching and Mentoring: Supporting others’ growth through feedback, guidance and development opportunities.
- Collaboration and Influence: Working effectively across teams and departments and influencing without authority.
- Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB): Creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued.
Insight and Agility
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to see the big picture, anticipate trends and align team efforts with organizational goals.
- Decision Making and Problem Solving: Analytical thinking, sound judgment and the ability to make timely, informed decisions under pressure.
- Adaptability and Resilience: Comfort with ambiguity, openness to change and the ability to bounce back from setbacks.
Operational Excellence
- Project and Time Management: Prioritizing tasks, managing resources and delivering results efficiently.
- Change Management: Leading teams through transitions and helping others adapt to new ways of working.
- Digital Fluency: Comfort with technology, data and digital tools that support modern leadership.