Summer Leadership Academy Continues Growth for Students - and Program

Since 2018, Mount Mary University has hosted the Summer Leadership Academy (SLA), a robust and immersive pre-college program for young women who are first year, sophomores or juniors in high school. At the academy, students develop their leadership skills, learn about the college application process and participate in hands-on career exploration sessions.

What began in 2018 as a 3-day/2-night program for 50 students has grown into a 5-day/4-night experience. In 2023, 84 students participated in the SLA, our largest class to date! In 2024 the program will expand even further to include 95 students.

"I have 100% grown into a better leader, more confident and I feel like I have figured out my goals." — PAYTON J., 2023 SLA PARTICIPANT

The Summer Leadership Academy features panels, lectures and interactive workshops presented by speakers from various backgrounds. Participants work on communication skills, building confidence, finding the right college, applying for college and the financial aid process. The SLA also provides a window into the college experience as participants are paired with a roommate from another high school and stay in Mount Mary’s residence halls for the duration of the program.

Each participant is eligible to earn two college credits, an estimated value of $1,200, which can be applied to Mount Mary or other universities as electives. “Our daughter is now a proud graduate of the program and we can say without any hesitation that it truly was a transformative experience for her and we could not be more grateful for the opportunity to partake in such an empowering program,” shared Kim and John, parents of a 2023 Academy participant.

Contributing to the continued success of the program is the inclusion of former SLA participants as peer mentors. These young women put their leadership skills and experiences as Academy graduates into practice by being small group leaders and assisting current participants. Kenydi, a 2023 peer mentor shared, “I loved it! I’d do it over and over again!” Peer mentors are trained in how to lead thought-provoking conversations and guided discussions. This experience gives these students a tangible leadership opportunity, as well as a tuition scholarship to attend the SLA.

2024 Summer Leadership Academy

The 2024 Summer Leadership Academy will take place June 23-27, 2024. Young women interested in applying to the 2024 program should check mtmary.edu/sla often for updated information, as well as answers to frequently asked questions. Applications will be available Jan. 1, 2024 and must be submitted by March 1, 2024.