LEADERSHIP UGA: EMERGING LEADERS

About the Program

FALL 2025 SCHEDULE

Leadership UGA, established in 1985, is a cohort-based program providing students the opportunity to develop their leadership skills, interact with campus and community leaders, and become more aware of the social issues facing our campus, community, state, nation, and world.

Emerging Leaders is a cohort-based program designed for first-year, second-year students interested in developing their leadership skills and leadership identity. Participants will gain a better understanding of their values, a commitment to serving their community, and an understanding of one’s self and others. By participating in Emerging Leaders, students will:

  • Define their personal leadership style
  • Identify their personal values and unique strengths to apply into leadership skills/practice
  • Develop confidence in leading others and working in groups

Leadership UGA is made possible by the generous support of the Richard B. Russell Foundation.

How to Join

Apply today!

Applications for the Fall 2026 cohort of Leadership UGA: Emerging Leaders will open in August 2026. Follow us on Instagram @UGAengagement for updates on application deadlines and how to apply to be a part of Leadership UGA!

If you have any questions regarding the program, reach out to Oba Samaye at obamide.samaye@uga.edu!

Student Testimonials

“When I first came to UGA, I was so nervous I wouldn’t find my people. Through LUGA, that fear was easily curbed! I met so many other students who were equally passionate about making a positive impact on campus; I left every meeting feeling inspired to take on the next day! I’m so grateful to this cohort for creating such a comfortable environment for curiosity and growth!”

– Ciara Whimbush, Fall ‘25 Cohort 

“Being a part of Leadership UGA gave me opportunities to grow in my leadership and connect with others in ways I never expected. Through our discussions and activities, I’ve further developed my leadership style and gained confidence in voicing my ideas. I will not only carry these skills with me for the rest of my time at UGA, but also beyond that!”

– Amelia Edgar, Fall ‘25 Cohort 

“Leadership UGA: Emerging Leaders widened my perspective on the many different attributes that a leader may exhibit. Leaders can be anyone; not just the loudest and most outspoken person in the room. As a quieter, more soft-spoken individual, this program helped me feel more confident in how I can lead others in a way that allows me to be effective while being comfortable in leading how I want to lead.”

– Alyssa Weiszer, Fall ‘25 Cohort 

“Leadership UGA has mentored me and improved my ability to work and communicate with others. I began the program with some idea of what being a leader looked like and finished it by comprehending all aspects and nuances of leadership as well as all the moving parts in this ongoing process. I was able to make many connections with my peers and build countless meaningful relationships throughout all of its sessions. I am so grateful for the opportunity to participate in Emerging Leaders and would recommend it to anyone considering future leadership positions in or outside of UGA.”
Luke SwitzerFall '25 Cohort
“Honestly I wasn’t sure if LUGA was right for me but after going to a few sessions I realized that this was something I would look back on and be grateful that I did. I’m so grateful for the friends I’ve made through this program but also the leadership skills that I’ve gained and the confidence to put those skills into action!"
Christine MathewFall '25 Cohort
"I thoroughly enjoyed my experience with Leadership UGA this past semester. Participating in LUGA helped me to understand how my values influence my leadership style and taught me how to implement leadership skills in every aspect of my life. Not only did Leadership UGA take me on a great journey of self-discovery, but it also connected me with likeminded peers who I was able to have fun and connect with as all of us grew into better leaders."
Hannah Perdue Spring '22 Cohort
"Leadership UGA transformed my first year at UGA. LUGA provided me with skills of intercultural awareness, conflict management, and professionalism in a constructive and engaging environment of my peers, challenging me to think bigger and bolder in terms of my collegiate and career goals. I became a part of a great, supportive group of people who share my passion for leadership, and I can't wait to put my skills to use on campus and beyond.”
Margaret Hart Fall '21 Cohort
“LUGA made me view my personal life and connections through a new lens. I became more analytical with me surroundings and personal decisions that have long lasting effects on my life."
Elio Al Eethawi Spring '22 Cohort
"Leadership UGA has not only equipped me with skills necessary for future success, such as interview, debate, and networking, but also taught how to work as a team for the greater good of UGA and the Athens community."
Jenna DekichFall '22 Cohort
"College is, in part, about the communities you find yourself in, the people that come with, and the experiences you have with those communities. Being a part of a community is both unique and similar every time. The difference comes in what you do and the people you're with, and LUGA holds that difference to another level. I have loved the time I've spent here, and hope everyone gets to experience this type of community at some point. After spending time in the LUGA community, I now know that this is a group of people that I will consistently choose to be a part of. I hope you make the same decision I did! “
Elias LindFall '22 Cohort
"Just moving here, Leadership UGA helped me find my place in Athens, use my leadership skills at UGA, and develop new skills in this environment"
Spring '23 Cohort Member
"Leadership UGA has helped me in innumerable ways. The program helped me to recognize my own personal strengths and values, and taught me how to implement those qualities to be the best leader I can be. Leadership UGA has given me a unique and diverse group of peers that I can lean on to learn form and foster my own personal leadership skills."
Spring '23 Cohort Member