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The LeaderShape Institute

Students walking toward a mountain with text that reads Leadershape. To lead, Live.

Apply for a waitlist spot through the LeaderShape portal

WHAT IS THE LEADERSHAPE INSTITUTE?

The LeaderShape Institute is a FREE four-day experience that offers you a unique opportunity to develop a healthy disregard for the impossible. We are talking about getting out of your comfort zone and becoming the tipping point that changes everything. It can help you shape the way you look at the world and the way you influence positive change in it. The LeaderShape Institute is about building leaders interested in creating a just, caring and thriving world.

Over 500 students from Boise State have participated in the past and over 78,000 students have participated internationally across 50+ colleges since the program’s creation. Upon return from the LeaderShape Institute, students at Boise State have shared that this was one of the most impactful programs at Boise State for personal growth. Students also shared that they felt more energized by their organizations, motivated to pursue new projects, and identified some takeaway skills to navigate conflict, challenges, and problem solving. The capacity to lead is a skill that employers say they want from recent college graduates regardless of their major.

WHERE & WHEN

A lodge building in the mountains with a rainbow in the background

This year’s session will be held May 6 – 9, 2024 at the YMCA Camp at Horsethief Reservoir in Cascade, Idaho. Accommodations include cabins (easy access to bathrooms and showers) with comfortable bunk beds, all set in a serene outdoor setting. Transportation, food, and supplies will all be provided as well.

For students living on campus, extended housing and/or storage options may be available. Be sure to indicate this on your application.

SCHEDULE OVERVIEW

What are students signing up for? Students will have the opportunity to engage in interactive activities and reflective exercises in order to explore their personal values, strategies for navigating conflict, and creating a vision for the future. Facilities include a cozy lodge, fire pit area, and time in the beautiful Idaho mountains. Each day of the LeaderShape Institute is defined by a theme:

  • Monday, May 6: Living & leading with integrity
  • Tuesday, May 7: Challenging what is, looking to what could be
  • Wednesday, May 8: The value of one, the power of all
  • Thursday, May 9: Living in possibility

COST TO ATTEND

Students gathered in a circle


Believe it or not, it’s absolutely free! All full-time Boise State undergraduate and graduate students who will be returning to campus in Fall 2024 can apply. While the LeaderShape Institute is free to all students, we understand that missing work may present a financial hardship. There are a limited amount of need-based scholarships available. Each session is limited to about 60 participants.

HOW TO APPLY

Students hiking


Interested in this unique experience? There are still a few spots available and our waitlist is open if more spots open up. Complete the application now and we will be in touch very soon!

You will be redirected to the national LeaderShape organization portal and will be asked to create a profile in order to complete the application. It should only take about 15-20 minutes to complete the application. Applicants will be notified about their placement into the LeaderShape Institute by April 17th. Space is limited to 60 students.

Apply Now

WHY SHOULD I ATTEND?

Students participating in leadership activity


If you believe you have the potential to positively change the world and you believe in the importance of leading with integrity, then The LeaderShape Institute is for you. Challenge yourself and change everything.

Learn about:

  • Working in high-performance teams
  • Dealing with change and chaos
  • Producing extraordinary results
  • Decision-making for ethical dilemmas
  • Identifying personal values and standards
  • Understanding and respecting the values of others

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

Group of about 50 students and staff in blue and orange outdoors

“Who I am is how I lead. I am no longer interested in separating “personal from professional”; I want to use my personal qualities to be more authentic in my leadership roles from this point forward.”

“My “ah-hah” moment was learning that our values & integrity can be heavily influenced by our communities & society.”

“I think the LeaderShape facilitators have a great way of making connections with students and getting them to open up and feel accepted.”

“I learned different aspects of what makes a leader. My previous definition became a lot more broad, and I can now visualize all the different strengths and qualities that can make someone a leader.”

“I realized that my story and history matters and could influence others.”

HOW ARE STUDENTS CHOSEN TO PARTICIPATE?

Photo of a group of students

Students are selected based on their answers to the questions on the application. A team of staff members reviews the applications, which do not include any names, and then assembles a group of about 60 participants. All other applicants are placed on a waiting list and contacted as needed.

WHAT ABOUT FOOD & WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

Leadershape themes

Enjoy three delicious meals each day, along with refreshments to help keep you going. If you have a food allergy, restrictive diet, or need other accommodations, please mention it on your application. The LeaderShape Institute staff will be happy to work with you and the camp staff to plan proper meals and support your needs.

Find out what to pack by viewing The LeaderShape Institute Packing Guidelines.

Questions? Contact the Student Involvement and Leadership Center at (208) 426-1223 or getinvolved@boisestate.edu.

Blue image with Institute logo. Text that reads, Lead with integrity. Live in possibility.