Leadership development is an increasingly critical component of the higher education experience. As students prepare to graduate and enter a competitive job market, they are expected to be self-aware, skilled collaborators who can effectively contribute to teams and potentially lead organizations. Formal leadership development programs provide these students with essential tools for both personal and professional success, distinguishing institutions that offer them.
These programs not only enhance classroom learning but also attract high-ability students and increase the value of their education. Participation in such programs has been shown to improve student engagement and foster a strong sense of belonging within the educational community. However, implementing a successful leadership development program is no simple task. Based on decades of experience and research in leadership development, we have identified five key practices that define high-impact programs.
1. Proven Leadership Model and Developmental Framework
Successful student leadership programs are grounded in proven leadership models and developmental frameworks that meet students where they are. The Professional Standards for Higher Education recommend incorporating multiple leadership theories into program design. This approach recognizes leadership as a shared responsibility rather than the sole domain of individuals in charge.
The Center for Creative Leadership (CCL) introduced the concept of shared leadership framed by three key outcomes: Direction, Alignment, and Commitment (DAC). These outcomes guide students in understanding their roles within a group or organization and help them develop essential skills like self-management and resilience.
2. Formative Evaluation of Students
A hallmark of effective leadership programs is the use of formative evaluation to track student progress before, during, and after their leadership experiences. This evaluation helps identify individual strengths and weaknesses, guiding personal growth and informing program improvements over time. A tool like the Leadership Indicator for Students (LIS) can be invaluable for assessing attributes such as self-awareness, accountability, collaboration, and vision.
3. Relevant and Meaningful Leadership Experiences
Real-world application of leadership skills is crucial for student growth. Programs that incorporate relevant experiences tied to curricular or extracurricular interests help students internalize their learning. These might include group projects, internships, or community service opportunities that allow students to apply their newfound knowledge in meaningful ways.
4. Impactful Coaching
Coaching is one of the most effective practices within student leadership development programs. Personalized coaching helps students navigate unique challenges and gain insights not easily uncovered in group settings. Institutions should carefully select and train coaches—be they staff, peers, faculty, or alumni—to ensure alignment with the program’s framework.
5. Tools and Methods for Engaging Experiences
The best programs employ engaging tools and methods to convey critical content effectively. These might include interactive modules supported by assessments that adapt to each student's level of understanding. Such tools ensure that learning experiences are not only informative but also compelling and memorable.
Conclusion: Building a Foundation for Future Leaders
The journey toward creating transformative student leadership programs can be daunting but rewarding. By incorporating these five key practices—proven models, formative evaluation, meaningful experiences, impactful coaching, and engaging tools—institutions can build strong foundations for developing future leaders. The goal is not only to provide educational experiences but also to cultivate leaders who will make a difference in the world.
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