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About WE LEAD »
Application Requirements »
Why Become a Leadership Scholar? »
Program Overview and Requirements »
About WE LEAD
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing Leadership Academy, WE LEAD, aims to develop, foster, and champion the leadership competencies of emerging and established nurse leaders, preparing them to build a culture of health around the world.
WE LEAD uses experiential learning to add depth to the student experience, covering topics like entrepreneurship, negotiation, and innovation. The themes and curriculum were developed around the ANA’s Leadership Institutes pillars of ‘leading yourself, leading others and leading the organization.’
“The leadership academy has brought me closer to the college as a whole and has given me an even greater appreciation for the nursing profession.”
–WE LEAD Graduate
Application Requirements
The program is open for third and fourth-year undergraduate nursing students and first-year Second Degree students from all campuses. To apply, you must:
- Be in good academic standing with the University
- Provide a statement of goals
Why Become a Leadership Scholar?
Leadership Scholars gain completely free access to unique workshops, team building activities, networking opportunities, exciting field trips, banquets, book clubs, and more — all designed to foster leadership skills.
With Penn State Nursing students distributed across various campuses, WE LEAD provides a distinct opportunity for them to unite and learn from one another. This program fosters connections across the commonwealth, instills a sense of unity and camaraderie, and enhances their leadership skills. Nursing students across every campus participate are encouraged to apply.
Participating in the WE LEAD program and graduating as a Leadership Scholar from the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing will distinguish you from your colleagues, guide you on the path to effective leadership by harnessing your strengths and abilities, and provide you with a competitive edge as you seek employment and educational opportunities beyond the BSN degree.
“The networking opportunities provided are amazing; I have learned so much from Penn State alumni who have achieved so much in their careers. I now feel ready to start my career and lead just as much as they have.”
–WE LEAD Graduate
Program Overview and Requirements
Participation in WE LEAD is completely free and open to all upper division undergraduate Penn State Nursing students and first-year Second Degree students regardless of campus.
To make the most of this experience, you’ll participate in two dynamic virtual programs throughout the year (additional sessions may be offered), engage in thought-provoking discussions through our virtual book club, and attend an in-person event — such as the Fall Travel Experience or the Spring Leadership Program at University Park.
All WE LEAD members are invited to attend the end-of-year banquet and receive a College of Nursing WE LEAD pin. Students who participate in all of these activities will also will receive a WE LEAD honor cord and be recognized at graduation. Commit to the journey and watch your potential sour!
Students participating in WE LEAD programming — whether on campus or during travel experiences will receive free WE LEAD swag and meals during events. For off-campus travel experiences, all students are provided with transportation, lodging, and meals at no cost. Programming may include team-building activities, hands-on workshops, and self-assessments.
If you have any questions, please contact Glorie Josephs.
