Women's Leadership Academy

The mission of the Women’s Leadership Academy (WLA) is to encourage leadership identity development for women and male allies, foster a supportive community, and provide resources for academic persistence. All students are welcome and experiences in this program are tailored to give them the knowledge, experience, and skills to lead in any capacity.

Academy Membership

Women's Leadership Academy engages student leaders by helping them:

Develop and define their unique leadership identity
Explore and understand issues that impact women leaders
Build and expand their professional and personal networks

Membership Benefits:

Supportive community of fellow student-leaders
Personalized Gallup StrengthsFinder coaching
Formal and informal mentorship opportunities
Hands-on leadership experiences
University credit for leadership coursework
Scholarship opportunities

Program Requirements:

To be considered, applicants must be enrolled as full-time students (12 credit hours), have completed at least 30 credit hours (15 of which must be at UVU) and have a minimum 3.0 GPA at time of application. Scholarships may be available for students who apply and are admitted to the program. To get involved, applications open annually in February. The priority application deadline is March 31.

Fall Semester

Complete StrengthsFinder assessment
Create development plan
Enroll in required leadership course
Submit monthly reflections
Complete and present two case studies with a group
Attend biweekly cohort meetings
Meet at least three times with assigned peer mentor
Attend office hours with your instructor at least twice

Spring Semester

Submit final project
Enroll in required leadership course
Submit monthly reflections
Complete and present two case studies with a group
Attend biweekly cohort meetings
Meet at least three times with chosen professional mentor
Attend office hours with your instructor at least twice

Apply

Leadership Academy Requirements

Get more information about getting involved with Women's Leadership Academy and it's requirements.

Learn More

Joining the Women's Leadership Academy (WLA) at Utah Valley University (UVU) can offer a range of valuable benefits and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Applications for the 2024-2025 cohort will open in February 2024.

There have been numerous times this semester when knowing my strengths have been a benefit to me. I have used them while speaking, interviewing for a job and in handling situations with my children. I have learned how to better manage my time and that I am allowed to have time for me, to give myself grace and to be a better advocate for myself."
-Heather
In this class, I have learned many leadership and overall life skills. I have learned how to better communicate with people and express my feelings. I have also learned a lot more about my strengths and the things I bring to the table. This class has also taught me much about the value of self-worth and self-care… both of which I have really struggled with in the past. I have become more aware of my value and how to treat myself like my best friend.”
-Megan
Being a part of this program has provided, and will continue to provide me with excellent opportunities to progress in confidence levels and networking abilities. It has also provided more overall knowledge of what it means to be a female leader in a professional environment. Something I've seen other women struggle with as they enter the workforce. I anticipate that this program will help me more with my goals of becoming a leader in the local technology community, as the mission encourages excellence in harder academic skills as well as softer social skills."
-Emily
I have personally learned so much about becoming a group leader, working in teams, and feeling like I am a part of something within the university. My interests in being a part of this team have remained constant. I am interested in the professional relationship it’ll help me build. For example, I’m looking forward to my professional mentorship next semester with Home Shade & Garden. I am also looking forward to getting out of my comfort zone while expanding my social and professional network. It also looks good on resumes."
-Kim
This class has provided numerous resources to be successful. The monthly meetings and evaluations really keep me accountable, which is what I need in order to reach my goals. With these frequent evaluations, I realize what is working in my life, and goals I need to make in order to change. Having the support system in this class really motivates me to contribute."
-Ellie

Peer Mentors

As part of the Women’s Leadership Academy, peer mentors are a huge benefit to our students. Peer mentors work with our students by being their advocate, referring them to resources on campus as needed, and a coach. Select the link below to view the requirements to join.

More Information about UVU Mentors

Women's Leadership Academy Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a fee to participate?

No, there are no required fees.

How many students are selected to participate?

We select up to 20 students for each year’s cohort.

Can I start the Women's Leadership Academy program in spring semester?

No, the WLA is a two-semester program beginning in the fall of each academic year.

Which role is right for me: cohort member or peer mentor?

If you would like to be a peer mentor for the Women’s Leadership Academy, take a look at UVU Mentors requirements and apply. To participate as a student in the course, see the information above and apply.

Can graduate students participate in this program?

Unfortunately, we are not accepting applications from graduate students at this time. If you would like to become more involved with the Women’s Program, please consider joining Women of UVU.

Can I still participate if my schedule doesn't allow me to enroll in the required classes?

No, the courses are the core of the Women's Leadership Academy program, and all cohort members must enroll. Please note that peer mentors are not required to enroll in the courses.

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