An exclusive leadership experience rooted in history, built for the future.
Some leadership programs teach strategy. Others focus on networking. But the Presidential Leadership Scholars (PLS) Program goes deeper, shaping leaders through reflection, historical insight, and a powerful network of changemakers who are rewriting what leadership looks like in action.
If you’ve ever looked at the challenges facing your community, your industry, or your country and thought, “I can do more – I have to do more,” this is your invitation to rise.
PLS isn’t just your regular fellowship. It’s a transformative six-month journey guided by the leadership legacies of four former U.S. Presidents: George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Lyndon B. Johnson.
Their presidential centres have come together to invest in a new generation of leaders who are bold, civically grounded, and ready to engage with complexity, not shy away from it.
Through this program, you won’t just learn how to lead – you’ll be challenged to unlearn old habits, break through your assumptions, and rebuild your leadership style with intention, humility, and purpose.
Why is this program important?
In a time when leadership is often reduced to power or influence, PLS stands for something different. It stands for principled leadership. Inclusive leadership. Courageous leadership.
You’ll be surrounded by people from across sectors – government, business, nonprofits, health, education, tech – and across ideologies. What connects them all is a deep commitment to serving others and a willingness to grow.
You’ll go into tough conversations, explore your blind spots, and expand your capacity to lead not just in your field, but in a society that needs empathy, clarity, and action more than ever.
What you’ll experience as a scholar
This year’s PLS Class will participate in a rigorous and rewarding leadership development experience, fully funded and designed to accommodate professionals who are serious about making an impact.
Here’s what the program includes:
- Immersive Modules: Travel to the four presidential centres – each session bringing the leadership lessons of one U.S. President to life. You’ll engage with top thinkers, practitioners, and former administration insiders.
- Historical Case Studies: Analyze real-life decisions from past presidencies and extract lessons that are still relevant to modern-day leadership dilemmas.
- Personal Reflection: Examine your leadership journey, from where it began to where you’re going. You’ll reflect deeply on your values, behaviors, and ability to lead across lines of difference.
- Peer Learning: Join a diverse cohort of high-impact leaders who will challenge, support, and stretch you. These are peers who will stay in your corner long after the program ends.
- Capstone Initiative: Apply everything you’ve learned to a leadership project that addresses a real issue in your community or sector. You’ll refine it throughout the fellowship with feedback from experts and peers.
- No Cost to You: All program-related expenses – tuition, travel, housing, and meals during in-person sessions – are fully funded by contributions from PLS supporters.
Who they’re looking for
This opportunity is not for the passive or the comfortable. It’s for the bold, the committed, the curious – those who know they’ve got more to give and are ready to give it.
You’re an eligible candidate if:
- You’re a U.S. citizen or legal resident, either living in the country or abroad (if abroad, you’ll need to cover international travel costs).
- You’re 21 or older and have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience (exceptionally strong candidates with less will also be considered).
- You have a demonstrated track record of leadership and community impact.
- You’re open to feedback, engaged in continuous growth, and willing to challenge your assumptions.
- You value diverse viewpoints and want to lead in a way that’s inclusive, ethical, and effective.
- You’re ready to commit to six months of deep work, including in-person sessions and time for your capstone project.
Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, pioneering policy, innovating in the private sector, or working at the intersection of systems and service, this program was built for leaders like you.
How to apply
The application process is designed to get to know not just your resume, but your vision.
- Submit your complete application, including recommendations.
- If selected, you’ll be invited to a virtual interview in October this year.
- Final decisions will be announced in December, and the Class will begin their journey soon after.
The Presidential Leadership Scholars Class isn’t just about who you are – it’s about who you’re ready to become. If you are eligible, click here.
To get more information about the program, you should go to the Presidential Leadership Scholars website.