President's Student Leadership Institute

USD is committed to the success of its students and to facilitating programs that encourage the development of leadership skills and connections across South Dakota. The President's Student Leadership Institute is an initiative that supports our goals of preparing students for life after graduation. This cohort participates in a variety of pre-professional preparation activities throughout the academic year that develop essential skills and knowledge necessary to be a young professional and leader in the state of South Dakota. Students who participate focus on the areas of group dynamics, personal strengths, personal values, financial literacy, responsible citizenship, professional etiquette and the building of a greater understanding of the economic, political and geographic impacts of our state.

 

Important Dates:

  • September 24: PSLI Kickoff Event | 5:30 - 7:00 PM
  • October 8: Strengths Session | 5:30 - 7:00 PM
  • October 22: First Amendment Education with the Freedom Forum | 5:00 - 6:30 PM
  • November 8 - 10: Trip Across South Dakota
  • November 19: Etiquette Dinner | 5:30 - 7:00 PM
  • December 3: Community Involvement as a Young Professional | 5:30 - 7:00 PM
  • January 21 - 22: Trip to Pierre - USD Day at the Capitol
  • February 4: Financial Literacy | 5:30 - 7:00 PM
  • February 18: Fireside Chat with President Gestring & Guest | 5:30 - 7:00 PM
  • April 1: Celebration Dinner | 5:30 - 8:00 PM  

Stay tuned for Spring Semester Individual Strengths Coaching with Michelle or Melissa. Scheduling information will be send out after the Strengths Session on October 8th. 

Application Process

Senior-level students are invited to apply. Junior-level students who cannot participate their senior year, such as education and nursing majors, may also apply. There is no cost to participants.

  • Please fill out and submit the application here.
  • If you have questions regarding your application or the application process, please email [email protected].

Applications will open on August 17th and close September 13th at 11:59 PM.

Successful applicants will be notified September 15th. Acceptance and commitment statements will be due September 20th.