Building leaders within a new programmatic framework

A Purude Dining & Culinary student employee helping a customer

A student manager in a dining court. A resident assistant. The president of a student organization. No matter the role, the goal is the same — to learn to lead on campus and beyond.

Departments within Student Life are working to develop student leaders through a new programmatic framework of leadership being implemented, led by the Roger C. Stewart Office of Student Leadership, Engagement and Community (SLEC). The goal is to develop student growth in 20 leadership competencies using a stepped approach that provides resources for students as they discover their leadership potential.

“These are foundational skills,” says Jeff Stefancic, director of SLEC and senior associate dean of students. “Wherever a student is connected to leadership — whether that’s through University Residences, Recreation & Wellness, a student organization, a cultural center and so forth — we’re all working toward the same skills that we want our students to have.”

While the framework divides development into four steps, it is important to note that these steps do not correlate to class standing. A junior may be taking the first step in their leadership journey, while a first-year student may have progressed to their third or fourth step. A student’s entry into the framework could be as simple as attending the B-Involved Fair to connect with a student organization or volunteering through a campus program. At the last step, students will be prepared for high-responsibility roles, such as serving as a resident assistant, organization president or student manager, and will be able to translate their roles into advanced skills for future endeavors.

A small group of people wearing PSUB sweatshirts sitting at a table during an event.

“Ideally, when they’re nearing the end of their time at the university as a student, they’ve mastered those skills,” Stefancic says.

To support the programmatic framework, SLEC is working to launch the executive leadership initiative, consisting of an advanced leadership workshop series; a tiered mentorship program that connects students with peer, alumni and industry mentors; and a peer-coaching program. The initiative focuses on creating opportunities for connection and reflection with an emphasis on real-world application.

SLEC will also host its inaugural leadership summit in fall 2026. The event will include a keynote speaker, breakout sessions highlighting leadership programs across campus and a student panel.