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LeadState participants from the fall 2022 cohort alongside the LeadState logo

LeadState

LeadState is a semester-long program for sophomore students. The program helps students identify and build on their leadership strengths, set leadership goals, connect with campus and community leaders and engage in service. Over 1000 students have completed the program since its inaugural year in 2009.

The LeadState facilitation team comprises professional staff, faculty and administrators from across campus. Members organize leadership events, coordinate service opportunities, present leadership workshops and serve as leadership coaches who meet with students several times throughout the semester. 

Student participants will work with a group of peers throughout the semester, alongside our facilitation team, developing their leadership capacity while working on a shared service project. Interested students will also have the opportunity for one-on-one leadership coaching the spring following their fall experience.

As an intensive co-curricular leadership development experience, LeadState's mission is to:

  • Help students identify and build on their leadership strengths through work with Gallup, Inc.'s StrengthsFinder tool.
  • Connect them with emerging and established campus and community leaders.
  • Engage them in meaningful service and reflection.
  • Assist them through the development and pursuit of their leadership goals.
  • Enhance their leadership efficacy.
  • Prepare them for personal and professional success in future endeavors.