Our Program
Presidential Leadership Scholars brings together bold and principled leaders who are committed to facing critical challenges, both at home and around the world, and who are interested in exploring lessons learned during the administrations of George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Lyndon B. Johnson.
Each year, a diverse group of mid-career professionals begin a journey to hone their leadership abilities through interactions with former presidents, key administration officials, leading academics, and business and civic leaders.
Scholars put their learning into action through a personal leadership project, intended to solve a problem or pressing issue in their community, country, or the world. They gain the skills necessary to work across divides and develop a network that spans traditional geographic, professional, political, and economic boundaries. PLS challenges pre-existing perceptions and inspires the Scholars to lead lasting, positive change.
Program Features
Curriculum & Logistics
Featuring course sessions led by distinguished professors and practitioners representing a variety of perspectives on leadership, the Presidential Leadership Scholars program comes at no cost to accepted participants.
The curriculum focuses on four core leadership skills: Vision and Communication, Decision Making, Persuasion and Influence, and Strategic Partnerships. Spread over six months, the sessions involve approximately 20 days of on-location instruction and interaction, coupled with pre- and post-module assignments and evaluations. In addition, Scholars form meaningful relationships with one another and learn from each other’s divergent views and backgrounds.
2025 SCHEDULE AND COSTS
This six-month commitment, from January through June. During that time, participants meet for a five-day opening session, which is followed by one extended weekend per month at each of the presidential centers. The program concludes with a four-day session and capstone module. The four presidential centers are committed to ensuring that leaders across the country can participate in this program at no cost to the Scholars. Tuition, housing, meals, and travel during the sessions in the host center’s city are fully funded by contributions from our program supporters.
Advisory Committee
The Advisory Committee of the Presidential Leadership Scholars program contributes to the breadth and depth of expertise supporting this innovative education program.”
Fred McClure
Executive Director of Leadership Initiatives, Office of the Provost, Texas A&M University
Kenneth A. Hersh, Ex-Officio
President and Chief Executive Officer, George W. Bush Presidential Center