Appliations are Now Open
Student applications will be accepted through Sunday, October 18, and interviews will begin as applications are received.
Student Nominations are Now Open
Know a student with leadership potential who may just need someone to recognize it?
Faculty, staff, ELA alumni, and members of the ETSU community are invited to nominate full-time first- and second-year students for the Dr. Brenda White Wright Emerging Leaders Academy.
We are especially looking for students who have not yet held significant leadership roles on campus but show potential to lead, serve, and grow. Campus involvement is not required.
Nominations due Thursday, October 8.
Nominated students will be invited to apply by Sunday, October 18.
Dr. Brenda White Wright Emerging Leaders Academy
Grow. Connect. Lead.
The Dr. Brenda White Wright Emerging Leaders Academy (ELA) is an eight-week leadership development experience for first- and second-year ETSU students who want to build confidence, discover their strengths, make meaningful connections, and make a difference at ETSU and beyond.
You do not need a leadership title or extensive campus involvement to apply. ELA is designed to help students recognize their potential and develop the skills, relationships, and confidence to take their next steps as leaders.
The ELA Experience
ELA is grounded in servant leadership and the belief that leadership is not simply about holding a position. It is about knowing yourself, building relationships, serving others, and using your strengths to make a positive difference.
As part of ELA, students participate in:
• An overnight Emerging Leaders Advance focused on connection, leadership development, service, and personal growth
• Eight weekly cohort sessions featuring interactive activities, speakers, reflection, and practical leadership experiences
• Conversations and activities exploring leadership styles, communication, values and ethics, time and stress management, conflict resolution, service, and community engagement
• Opportunities to connect with other students, ELA alumni, campus leaders, and members of the ETSU community
• A graduation celebration recognizing participants and their growth
There is no cost to participate in ELA.
What Will You Gain?
Through ELA, you will have opportunities to:
• Discover your strengths and better understand your leadership style
• Build confidence and self-awareness
• Strengthen your communication and relationship-building skills
• Learn how to navigate conflict, challenges, and difficult decisions
• Develop meaningful connections and a sense of community at ETSU
• Explore opportunities to become more involved on campus and beyond
• Put servant leadership into practice
Who Should Apply?
ELA is designed for full-time first- and second-year ETSU students in good standing.
We especially encourage students who want to grow, become more involved, meet new people, or explore what leadership might look like for them. You do not have to be involved in a student organization or currently hold a leadership position.
ELA brings together students with different experiences, interests, perspectives, and strengths who are ready to learn from and alongside one another.
Spring 2027 Emerging Leaders Academy
The 2027 Academy will take place during the spring semester and includes an overnight Emerging Leaders Advance and eight weekly cohort sessions.
Because relationships and shared experiences are central to ELA, students selected for the Academy are expected to participate fully in the Advance and weekly sessions.
Applications are open through Sunday, October 18.
Our Mission
The mission of the Dr. Brenda White Wright Emerging Leaders Academy is:
“To identify, encourage, and support students as they develop knowledge and skills to become effective servant leaders at ETSU and beyond.”
Want to Learn More?
Attend an upcoming ELA information session or contact the Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement to learn more about the Academy.
Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement
Carrier Center for Student Success and Engagement
D.P. Culp Student Center, Second Floor
leadandserve@etsu.edu
423-439-6633