The Panther Leadership Academy is a 20-week leadership development program for Pitt undergraduate students that helps students discover and develop their personal capacity to lead effectively and inclusively.
- Our Foundation
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The foundation of the Panther Leadership Academy is based on the Social Change Model of Leadership which highlights 8 key principles: Consciousness of self, Congruence, Commitment, Collaboration, Common Purpose, Controversy with Civility, Citizenship, and Change.
In the Panther Leadership Academy, we use a hands-on approach combined with large and small group discussions, team building activities, community engagement, and role playing.
- Discussion Topics
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Panther Leadership Academy Discussion Topics Include: Leadership philosophies, the cycle of socialization, the cycle of liberation, communication styles, social identities, social power, group dynamics, values, social media use, career connections, confronting biases, and community engagement.
- Panther Leadership Academy Schedule & Registration
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The Panther Leadership Academy is a total of 20 weeks, but is split into two 10-week semesters. Section 1 will be offered during the Fall semester, and Section 2 will be offered in the Spring semester. To graduate from the Panther Leadership Academy, a student must complete both Section 1 AND Section 2.
Sessions are offered once per week for two hours in a cohort-style that allows you to build relationships and grow with a small group of peers throughout the duration of the semester. - Fall 2025 Section 1 Days & Times Offered
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Registration for Section 1 in Fall 2025 will open this summer. Capacity is limited, so students are encouraged to register early.
Early Bird registration will be available for residents living in Irvis Hall who are members of the Education, Leadership & Social Change Living Learning Community. Members of this community will receive an Early Bird registration email on July 15. Early Bird registration will be open from July 15 to August 15.
Registration will open to the entire campus community on August 15. Registration will close once all days/times offered are filled.
Section 1 will be offered on Tuesdays 6-8 PM, Wednesdays 6-8 PM, Thursdays 6-8 PM, and Fridays 1 - 3 p.m. for Fall 2025. Participants will be assigned one day/time to attend weekly throughout the semester. Section 1 will run the week of September 15 through the week of November 17. - What will I receive after completing the Panther Leadership Academy?
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- A Certificate of completion from Leadership Development
- Pitt and/or Panther Leadership Academy merchandise
- Outside the Classroom Curriculum (OCC) credit toward the Leadership Development Goal
- Ability to continue taking various classes at Pitt to attain Certification of Leadership through the College of General Studies
- Ability to apply to be a Peer Facilitator for the Panther Leadership Academy