Pack Leadership Initiative
Our New Leadership Program for Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors
Sign-Up for Pack Leadership Initiative Spring 26 Here!
What is the Pack Leadership Initiative?
The Pack Leadership Initiative offers an applied leadership experience designed for students who want to grow beyond traditional workshops and develop skills they can use on campus and after graduation. PLI combines intentional learning, hands on application, and individualized support to help participants understand their strengths and make meaningful impact.
Students engage in a series of interactive sessions focused on leadership exploration, collaboration, communication, professional readiness, and personal development. Participants also complete an applied leadership project focusing on a campus or community issue and receive guidance from campus partners to support their growth.
Students who complete all components of PLI will earn a leadership distinction that recognizes their commitment to skill development, applied learning, and positive contribution to the NC State community.
Program Outcomes
Participants in PLI develop skills that enhance both personal effectiveness and professional readiness. Outcomes include:
- Stronger understanding of personal leadership identity
- Ability to act from values and strengths
- Effective communication and facilitation skills
- Knowledge of the Social Change Model and systems thinking
- Experience navigating conflict through emotional intelligence and self regulation
- Tools for influencing teams and leading change
- Expanded collaboration and teamwork abilities
- Practical experience through a campus based leadership project
- Increased confidence in workplace and career settings
Who Should Participate?
PLI is designed for:
- Sophomores, juniors, and seniors who want meaningful leadership development
- Students who may not hold formal leadership roles but want to lead through action
- Students interested in personal growth, community impact, and applied learning
- Emerging leaders who want to strengthen their professional presence and skillset
- Individuals who enjoy learning in a cohort based environment
- Past Rising Leader participants are welcome and encouraged to apply!
Time Commitment and Expectations
- Attend Kick Off Meeting on January 28th (Sunday) from 12:00-4:00 PM
- Attend weekly Wednesday sessions from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM- Starting January 28, 2026 through April 8, 2026 (Excluding Spring Break)
- Engage actively with peers in discussions and activities
- Contribute to the applied leadership project
- Complete light reflection activities or preparation as assigned
- Demonstrate professionalism, respect, and commitment to growth
Topics Covered in PLI
Students explore a focused set of leadership and professional development topics, including:
Emotional Intelligence and Self Regulation
Understanding Leadership Identity, Personal Values and Strengths
Applying the Social Change Model and Systems Thinking
Community Engagement and Social Innovation
Communication, Facilitation, and Public Speaking
Career Development and Professional Presence
Ethical and Transformational Leadership
Leading Change and Influencing Without Authority
Real World Decision Making Through Leadership Simulations
Campus and Community Impact Leadership/Capstone Project
Sign-Up for Pack Leadership Initiative Spring 26 Here!
One-Time Leadership Workshops
Ready to make an impact? Your leadership journey starts here! Student Leadership & Engagement is offering a variety of one-time leadership workshops for ongoing leadership development. Click here to see our upcoming workshops!
If you have specific questions, please email ncstate-sle@ncsu.edu.
Contact Us
Connect with our team via email at sle-leadership@ncsu.edu.
