We aspire to differentiate WashU as the premier institution for developing purpose-driven leaders of character and capability.
Our vision for the future is audacious and we have much to do. In our first year, we are focused on five specific objectives:
- Cultivate a shared mental model of WashU’s distinctive perspective on leadership and the vehicles for leader development.
- Scale the reach of leader development across WashU’s undergraduate program.
- Build meaningful partnerships and pilot programs with constituents outside WashU’s undergraduate program—to include faculty, staff, and graduate students.
- Innovate in evidence-based leader development programs through experiments, pilots, and research partnerships.
- Secure resources for the long-term sustainability and broadening impact of the Bauer Leaders Academy.
Outcomes
As we embark on our work, we are encouraged by the promising impact of pilot programs that preceded the Bauer Leaders Academy:
- In the Fall of 2022, we piloted our work with a first-year seminar for the Danforth Scholars Program, housed in the Office of Scholar Programs, focused on exploring purpose, strengths, and values. We guided students to create a statement of personal purpose and complete a capstone project—a vision board embodying their personal purpose.
- In the Spring of 2023, we piloted a leadership coaching program in partnership with the Office of Scholar Programs. With a focus on emotional intelligence, students worked to define and refine targeted leadership skills.
- The results of these pilot programs substantiated the value of leadership development efforts focused on undergraduate students, encouraging us to continue to scale our efforts through the establishment of the Bauer Leaders Academy.
I feel like the program helped me increase my confidence in myself, my leadership skills, and how I approach group situations. Overall, the program has also helped encourage me to lean more into the practice of optimism.
Current Undergraduate Student, 2023-2024 Bauer Leaders Academy Coaching Participant
Our stories
WashU Students Lead with Purpose
1,676 first-year undergraduate students shared what gives their lives meaning and purpose during an orientation session designed by the George and Carol Bauer Leaders Academy. What they wrote offers a glimpse into what drives the newest members of the WashU community. The first year of college is a time of discovery. New students are exploring […]
Celebrating the 2026 Harriet K. Switzer Leadership Award Recipients
The Bauer Leaders Academy is proud to recognize this year’s recipients of the Harriet K. Switzer Leadership Award, an honor that celebrates students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, integrity, and a deep commitment to making a meaningful impact within the WashU community. This year, we are thrilled to honor Jad Bader and Ambar De Santos as […]
Celebrating Leadership in Action: 2026 Excellence in Leadership Awards Recap
The Bauer Leaders Academy, in partnership with Campus Life, is proud to celebrate another inspiring year of student leadership at WashU through the 2026 Excellence in Leadership Awards. Each year, these awards recognize students, student employees, advisors, and organizations who are making a meaningful impact across campus. From creating inclusive communities to leading innovative programs, […]
Connect with Us
Reach out today to learn more about how the Bauer Leaders Academy can enhance your WashU experience.