President’s Emerging Leaders

The President’s Emerging Leaders (PEL) program was created to fulfill Oglethorpe University’s mission to educate students to be citizens in a global world, ready them for responsible leadership, and empower them to pursue meaningful lives and productive careers. This selective program connects a small group of first-year students with established leaders in the Stormy Petrel community and beyond to help foster personal growth and community engagement.

How can you be selected?

If you have applied to Oglethorpe University as a first-time student, you have also put yourself in consideration for PEL. Students are hand-selected by faculty and staff based on a thorough review of the student’s application. To be selected as a part of this tight-knit community of leaders, students must have a demonstrated record of community engagement or leadership involvement. Although not necessary, you may choose to send an additional, short (no more that 300-word) letter via email to your admission counselor discussing your specific qualifications fitting of the program.  

What’s in it for members?

Participants will have the opportunity to interact with many established, engaging leaders, including the Oglethorpe University President, members of senior leadership, esteemed members of the alumni community, and business and non-profit leaders from the city of Atlanta. Through President’s Emerging Leaders, participants will be exposed to varying leadership styles and techniques, with the goal of helping you identify and hone your own effective leadership framework.

When does PEL meet?

President’s Emerging Leaders typically meets twice a month. Meetings may feature workshops, guest speakers, local outings, immersion activities, and more. Participants are expected to attend all PEL meetings.

After PEL, what’s next?

After a semester of participation in PEL, students will discuss how they will continue to be leaders and catalysts for positive change in the Oglethorpe community. Maybe it’s running for a position on SGA, auditioning for a role in a Theatre production, starting a new club or organization, or organizing a volunteer initiative in the Atlanta community. President’s Emerging Leaders is a foundation and a springboard for your next leadership opportunity.

What have past participants thought of the program?

  • I am more equipped to fully realize my potential as a mover and shaker in my community. For that, I am eternally grateful. -Alexander
  • I loved PEL because it gave me a chance to critically investigate who I am as a leader and what I can do at Oglethorpe in my four years here. – Mikayla
  • PEL has given me the opportunity to meet an array of faculty and students who I know I can depend on for incredible advice and support for anything I need assistance on. – Olivia
  • I greatly enjoyed my experience in the PEL program. I made a lot of friends and I’m grateful for the opportunities this program has given me. I have made connections with so many people that I would not have made without this program. – Aleece