Today, the Presidential Leadership Scholars (PLS) program opened the application process for its 2023 program cycle. PLS invites a diverse network of established leaders to learn about leadership through the lens of the presidential experiences of George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Lyndon B. Johnson. Applications will remain open through July 10 at midnight.
Each year, a select 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 leaders. They gain the insights and skills necessary to work across divides and develop a diverse network that spans traditional geographic, professional, political, and economic boundaries.
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. Examples of these Scholar-led efforts include working to deliver caring, easily-accessible, and high-quality health care for all women across the United States; providing employment opportunities and mentorship to veterans; and fighting for change against the generational harms of systemic racism.
“We have a unique opportunity with PLS to inspire and empower leaders from across the country by utilizing the exceptional resources the presidential centers provide,” said Holly Kuzmich, Executive Director at the George W. Bush Institute. “I continue to be encouraged and energized by the Scholars in this program and the lasting impact of their work.”
“Scholars in the PLS program have a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn, grow, and collaborate to make a positive difference in the world,” said Stephanie S. Streett, Executive Director at the Clinton Foundation. “Working on this program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional career, and with every graduating class, I grow more optimistic about our future for our communities, our country, and our world.”
Alumni of PLS include veterans, educators, physicians, public servants, corporate professionals, and nonprofit leaders at the forefront of their industries who all have one thing in common— their mission to drive social impact. Since PLS launched in 2015, more than 400 Scholars have participated in the program, building a strong, robust, and active alumni network across the United States.
Program tuition, housing, meals, and travel are fully funded during the course sessions in the host cities.
To apply for the 2023 program cycle, visit https://www.presidentialleadershipscholars.org/apply/.
View program photos at the PLS Flickr account.