Leadership Scholars Program

The Leadership Scholars Program provides select Salve Regina students with a strong foundation in the skills necessary to advance in organizations through facilitative and transformational leadership.

Through meetings and seminars, students who participate in this select program are exposed to a variety of leaders from campus, the local community, companies, organizations and government, helping them build a leadership “toolbox” that serves as the foundation for growth throughout their life journey. The development of these skills is underpinned by exposure to the critical concerns of the Sisters of Mercy, which reflect the most pressing challenges faced by society today.

Students in the Leadership Scholars Program learn to bridge the theoretical and the practical, empowering them to use the skills they develop in a variety of organizational settings and structures. They also learn how effective leadership may be actualized regardless of hierarchical position.

Eligibility and Selection Process

To be eligible for the Leadership Scholars Program, students must:

  • Gain admission to Salve Regina.
  • Place in the top tier of applicants receiving a McAuley, Presidential, Trustee or Pioneer scholarship upon admission.
  • If invited, complete the program application on their student status page. Students will demonstrate fit with the program through a short answer question of 500 words or less.

Students are invited to apply to the Leadership Scholars Program based on a holistic review of the admissions application, with close attention paid to academic achievement and an assessment of leadership potential as demonstrated through activities, community involvements, service and letters of recommendation. Selected students will be notified by the Office of Admissions.

Students receive a foundational overview of leadership styles and philosophies through speakers and interactive programming. Students complete readings and participate in seminars around the five key themes of mercy-inspired leadership: Social change, service, calling, vocation and team.

Students begin to select opportunities to enhance their leadership skill development. Members of the Leadership Scholars Program receive priority in pursuing the many opportunities offered on campus, including:

  • Nuala Pell Leadership Program (recommended for students considering public service)
  • Toastmasters International (recommended for students majoring in a business curriculum)
  • Navigator Leadership Development Program (recommended for students concerned with social change)
  • Orientation Leader
  • First Year Experience Peer Mentor
  • Student Government Association Executive Board
  • Resident Advisor
  • Student Ambassador Program
  • SOAR (Student Outreach and Recruitment) Team

The second year also features the President’s Leadership Luncheon Series, which brings program participants together with the University president and features guest speakers from the greater Salve Regina community, including alumni and community leaders.

As juniors and seniors, students continue participation in their chose leadership program(s) and also participate in a series of Leadership in Action seminars facilitated by leaders who have found success guiding organizations in business, social service, education, government and health care. Students are also encouraged to explore additional academic opportunities, including study abroad and the pursuit of fellowships and post-graduate scholarships.

Students who complete the Leadership Scholars Program receive special designation upon graduation, which provides a strong indication of preparation for success on resumes and graduate school applications.