The Experiential Leadership Institute is a one semester leadership program that engages sophomores and juniors in a variety of experiences and exercises designed to further develop the leadership potential of each student. Through personalized mentorship and a supportive and collaborative cohort, ELI students will walk away empowered, knowledgeable, and purposeful leaders for the common good.
What do we do in ELI?
ELI is an intentional space for students to learn and practice key leadership skills, make meaningful connections with their peers and community members, and to explore their passion projects, issues, and innovative strategies for positive change. We meet for two hours once a week and engage in a variety of activities, including guest speakers, coaching sessions, team building activities, and other hands-on activities. Expect to discover something new and unlock one of your many leadership gifts every week!
Social Change Model of Leadership
We recognize that each student has their own set of unique lived experiences, identities, and gifts which allows them to be their most authentic self and leader. In ELI, we will cultivate this. In addition, we are grounded and motivated by the Social Change Model of Leadership. We believe that leadership is a purposeful, collaborative, values-based process that aims at positive social change.
Community Impact Projects
Margaret Mead famously said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” In ELI, students will have the opportunity to propose and implement a Community Impact Project which addresses a need in our Gonzaga or local community. In small groups, they will gain much first-hand experiences researching, collaborating with impacted individuals, strategizing and networking with community stakeholders, developing and presenting a proposal, and implementing their project, thus making lasting positive impact.
Qualifications
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Full-time sophomore or junior status at Gonzaga University for the term they enroll
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Must be available Thursday Afternoons from 4-6 PM (Fall 2025)
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Strong interest in developing leadership characteristics in self and others
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Sense of responsibility and adaptability
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Effective organizational skills, including time management and ability to meet assigned deadlines
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Commitment to grow and perform as a leader for self and for Gonzaga University
ELI Required Events/Components
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Weekly Thursday afternoon meeting from 4-6 PM
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One weekend retreat at the beginning of the program
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One service immersion day during the program
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Schedule subject to change due to special campus speakers/events.
Program Benefits
Students who participate in the full semester of ELI programming will:
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Earn a Certificate in Foundations of Positive Social Change Leadership
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A personalized letter of recommendation highlighting their skills and contributions
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CliftonStrengths assessment and one-on-one coaching
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Gain knowledge and experience in the following leadership competency areas (Seemiller, 2014)
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Learning and Reasoning |
Self-Awareness and Development
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Interpersonal Interaction |
Group Dynamics |
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Civic Responsibility
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Communication | Strategic Planning | Personal Behavior |
How to Join
Applications open for the Fall semester March 17th and close April 22nd. To apply, students will fill out a short application that tells us their skills, experience, and interests. If selected, students will move on to the next round, where they will meet for an interview with an ELI Mentor. Students who apply will know the status of their application before the end of the semester.
To be sent the ELI application, fill out this form.
For more information or application questions please contact ELI's hosting office, the Payne Center for Leadership Development at pcld@gonzaga.edu
