LeaderShape Institute

Tuesday, January 6^th - Friday, January 9^th, 2026

The LeaderShape Institute is a four-day, immersive experience that challenges participants to clarify their values and create their vision for a just, caring, and thriving world. Not a typical leadership retreat, the Institute uses self-assessment, simulations, intensive small group discussions led by trained facilitators, and more to enhance participants' capacity for integrity-driven leadership on their campus, in their community, within their organization, and beyond. You can learn more about the Institute, which has operated on campuses across the country for more than 30 years, here.

LeaderShape Defines Leadership

Leadership involves living in a state of possibility, making a commitment to a vision, developing relationships to move the vision into action, and sustaining a high level of integrity. Effective leadership takes place in the context of a community and results in positive change.

The Institute is Tuesday - Friday (January 6^th - 9^th, 2026). The bus will leave Columbia early Tuesday morning and return Friday evening, giving you the weekend to settle in before classes begin on Monday the 12^th.

This program is completely FREE to you! Lodging, meals, transportation, and leadership development activities will be provided throughout the four days.

Up to 60 students may participate in the Institute. Apply HERE now! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so you will learn of your acceptance within a week of applying. The final deadline to apply is Sunday, November 16^th, but may be shut down sooner if capacity is reached.

If you have any questions about the program or registration, please contact Brett Williams.

Additional Information:

Each participant has an opportunity to engage in reflection, planning, one-on-one interactions, small group feedback, and large group learning during the four-day program. The Institute environment resembles a think tank more than a formal classroom. Students are encouraged to practice new skills, give and receive feedback from peers and faculty, and risk new behaviors in a safe, supportive atmosphere. Everyone at the Institute is a teacher and everyone is a learner.

60 students will be able to register for this program. Registrations will be on a first-come-first-served basis.

The Institute takes participants on a journey of self-discovery and leadership that includes identification of passions and values, development of a powerful vision, and commitment to integrity.

Leadership and Service Center