Not sure you’re a leader, but curious?

Ready to lead but want to learn more?

Each year, the Center for Leadership offers the Phoenix Leaders Program. The Phoenix Leaders Program is an opportunity for emerging leaders to engage in a reflective leadership journey during their first or second year at Elon.

This fall program features 5 sessions, including a welcome event, several leadership workshops, a visit to the Elon Challenge Course, and a 2-day (1 night) off-campus retreat at YMCA Camp Hanes. You’ll have the opportunity to focus in on what you want to do as a leader at Elon. During the retreat, students become more aware of their identities, past experiences, values, and how all of these contribute to their identity as a leader.  We guarantee you will build new connections and friendships.

The Center for Leadership hopes to equip students in the program with leadership skills so they can create positive change at Elon. Throughout the program, participants engage with the Center for Leadership professional staff, peer mentors, and like-minded first and second-year students. Phoenix Leaders participants are coordinated into small groups and mentored by a Phoenix Leaders Program alumni. Additionally, the Center for Leadership professional staff serve as mentors and as a resource for students.

Applications for the Fall 2026 Phoenix Leaders Program will open by the first day of fall classes. We encourage you to apply by Sunday, September 27, 2026, to be considered for one of the 40 spots in this year’s cohort. Applicants will be notified of their admission status by Tuesday, September 29, 2026, and the program will begin that Friday, October 2, 2026 (3-6 pm).

Learning Outcomes

¾Ã¾ÃÈÈ participating in the Phoenix Leaders Program will:

  • Connect with like-minded emerging leaders
  • Engage in a foundational exploration of their identities and lived experiences
  • Reflect on their previous experiences, their transition to Elon, and where they see themselves in the future

The Phoenix Leaders Program was an opportunity to not only connect with people like yourself, but to also connect with yourself and discover what your values truly are. It was a great way to get away from the stress of school and to value life as it is.

How To Participate

Elon students, faculty, and staff can nominate first-year students by emailing lead@elon.edu.  Participation in the Phoenix Leaders Program is FREE!

Phoenix Leaders Commitment

¾Ã¾ÃÈÈ interested in participating in the Phoenix Leaders Program must:

  • Apply by Sunday, September 27th, 2026
  • Demonstrate a commitment to leadership
  • Participate in the Phoenix Leaders Initial Meeting, Off-¾Ã¾ÃÈÈ Retreat, and Leadership workshops (dates and times can be found at the beginning of the application)
  • Engage in all programming and build relationships with fellow Phoenix Leaders and mentors