What is the ASU Leadership Institute?
The ASU Leadership Institute immerses leaders in the culture and assets essential to ASU’s future and the impact of higher education on society. During this structured nine-month program, participants will meet renowned professors and practitioners at ASU as well as university executive leaders. ASU Leadership provides a transformative experience inspiring leaders to innovate and strengthen our community.
Where can I get more information on the program?
This website serves as a guide to provide information about the program, application and selection processes, and answers to frequently asked questions about the program.
Who can apply?
The program is open to all ASU alums who are interested in serving their community and ensuring the future of higher education. We’re looking for Sun Devils who will enjoy spending focused time at their alma mater and with the leaders of the country’s No. 1 university in innovation (U.S. News & World Report, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020), who will successfully complete the program, and who will stay involved with ASU upon completion of this program.
How do I apply?
The application process is open from January to May annually. If you’ve missed the deadline, please feel free to submit your interest for Class 5 to Alissa Serignese at Alissa.Serignese@asu.edu.
Will you consider applicants from outside the Phoenix metropolitan area?
Absolutely. All participants will be required to fulfill time and project requirements at their own expense in addition to the application and tuition fees.
What is the time commitment, and how long are the program days?
The time commitment for the ASU Leadership Institute includes nine ASU Innovation Days (8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.), the program orientation, graduation, ASU/Sun Devil Impact Project and one-time service on a leadership panel. Attendance is mandatory for the orientation, ASU Innovation Day #1 and graduation (absolutely no exceptions). If you cannot commit to the full schedule, please consider applying at another time when it better suits your schedule.
What is the schedule for the program?
- Orientation
Thursday, August 12, 2021
- Innovation Days
September 17, 2021
October 15, 2021
November 19, 2021
December 10, 2021
January 14, 2022
February 11, 2022
March 11, 2022
April 8, 2022
Graduation — May 13, 2022
How much does the ASU Leadership Institute cost?
The program fee is $1,750 and due Aug. 31. There is early bird fee is $1,500 if paid in full by Aug. 15. The program fee covers full participation in all ASU Innovation Days, all materials and meals during the institute.
Is there a tuition refund policy if an employee withdraws or leaves the company?
The ASU Alumni Association will reimburse 50% of the program costs if the participant withdraws prior to the start of the program. Due to the nature of the program, reimbursements are not available after the start of the program, and both the participant and their employer will be liable for any unpaid fee balance.
How do employers benefit by sponsoring an applicant?
Employers benefit from an employee’s improved leadership, teamwork and problem-solving skills. Through their employee’s involvement, employers gain access to a broad network of prestigious leadership contacts, extensive knowledge of higher education and its impact on society, and how the No. 1 university in innovation prepares the next generation of leaders. Through this nine-month program, participants will learn the value and strength of individual influence on effecting change.
Does an individual need their employer’s permission to apply?
Yes. All participants must have their employer’s permission to participate, and the participants must indicate the commitment on the application form.
I do not work for a company; I own my business. Can I apply?
Absolutely. In this case, please submit a letter of recommendation from another source such as a mentor, business partner, former professor, former colleague, etc.
What are the expectations upon completion of the program?
After successful completion of the program, we want participants to stay involved in the ASU Leadership Institute, become involved in the university by serving on a board or council, help create and/or fundraise for student scholarships, serve as ambassadors for ASU in the community, and help ensure the ongoing success of this program.