Wright State launches unique leadership academy for undergraduate students

One of the early highlights of the Ascend Leadership Academy was an overnight retreat at Camp Kern designed to help Wright State students bond and develop an understanding of collaborative leadership.

A group of high-achieving undergraduate students from Wright State University is embarking on an intensive yearlong journey to enhance their leadership skills through the new Ascend Leadership Academy.

Organized by Rachel Sturm, Ph.D., associate dean of Wright State’s Raj Soin College of Business, the academy will help students increase their leadership potential, career success, and capacity to create a positive impact in the Dayton region and beyond. Students who complete the program will receive an Ascend Leadership Academy Certificate.

“The academy promises to significantly impact both the personal and professional lives of its participants, contributing to a vibrant and dynamic future for the Dayton region,” Sturm said. “Since nearly 80% of Wright State graduates remain in Raider Country, the Ascend Leadership Academy is designed to help students become leaders in their chosen careers in the Dayton region.”

The first cohort includes 31 students from various fields, including accounting, business management, economics, electrical engineering, entrepreneurship, finance, international business, management information systems, marketing, mechanical engineering, organizational leadership, pre-med studies and psychology.

“This eclectic mix underscores the academy’s commitment to nurturing leadership skills and character across disciplines, ensuring that participants are well-equipped to excel in their chosen professions,” Sturm said.

One of the early highlights of the academy’s curriculum was an overnight retreat at Camp Kern. The retreat included a variety of physical activities that created connections among the students and provided practical insights into collaborative leadership.

“I participated with an open mind, enjoyed the experience, left with an increased capacity in leadership and teamwork, and gained a fresh perspective on the importance of curiosity in understanding rules, compliance and potential loopholes,” said Nolan Conley, an organizational leadership major.

“Camp Kern was a blast,” Sturm said. “It was amazing getting to know the students better and seeing their leadership directly in action. I have been consistently impressed with the caliber of the students in the program thus far and am proud of how well they handled themselves at the camp. They were open to stepping out of their comfort zones and being fully committed to the tasks and relationships at hand, which was a transformative experience for all involved.”

Developed by the Raj Soin College of Business, the Ascend Leadership Academy will help Wright State students increase their leadership potential, career success and their capacity to create a positive impact in the Dayton region and beyond.

The academy will employ a variety of learning experiences and methodologies to help students develop their leadership talents, including assessments, formal instruction, panel discussions and mentorship opportunities. Students will also participate in field experiences and community service activities.

The academy will help students to better understand their core beliefs and motivations; develop character; enhance their emotional intelligence and interpersonal competencies; set goals; expand their worldview and community service mindset; and learn of professional opportunities in the Dayton region.

Monthly development sessions will be offered through the 2024–25 academic year. The program features a robust lineup of guest speakers and mentors who will provide students with access to a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Upcoming speakers include Wright State faculty specializing in organizational leadership, psychology and social work. The program will also host lawyers and lobbyists from nonprofit organizations and influential leaders from the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, among others.