Washington University in St. Louis has officially launched a bold and forward-thinking campaign aimed at tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges. With a $1 billion fundraising goal and a mission to redefine the role of research institutions in shaping the future, this campaign is more than a call for support—it’s a call to action.
As outlined in WashU’s recent announcement, the campaign focuses on four key areas of investment: research excellence, educational access, public health innovation, and leadership development. We are proud to share that the Bauer Leaders Academy (BLA) has been named one of the university’s top four strategic priorities.
Why Leadership Now?
Leadership has always mattered, but in today’s rapidly evolving world, the need for inclusive, adaptive, and purpose-driven leadership has never been more urgent. Through the Bauer Leaders Academy, WashU is investing in the next generation of changemakers—equipping students with the tools, experiences, and mentorship to lead with empathy and impact, no matter their field.
By centering leadership as a pillar of the campaign, WashU is sending a clear message: leadership is not reserved for those with titles, but for anyone willing to take action, step up, and inspire progress.
What This Means for BLA
The Bauer Leaders Academy’s inclusion in this historic campaign marks a significant moment in our journey. It reflects the strength of our programming, the dedication of our students, and the vision of our campus leaders who believe deeply in the transformative power of student leadership development.
This support will allow us to expand our impact—reaching more students, offering more immersive programming, and creating more pathways for students from all backgrounds to grow as leaders who serve the common good.
Join Us
We’re honored to be part of this monumental effort and excited for what lies ahead. Whether you’re an alum, student, faculty member, or friend of WashU, we invite you to be part of the movement. Together, we can shape the future through leadership, learning, and collective purpose.
To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit The Source article or follow our journey on social media.