Leadership Programs

The Margo F. Souza Leadership Center at UC Merced offers a variety of pathways for students to grow as leaders and engage meaningfully with their communities. Our Signature Programs provide structured, immersive experiences designed to develop leadership skills, deepen self-awareness, and create lasting impact. Click on any of the programs below to learn more.

6-Week Programs

• Bobcat Leadership Seminar A six-workshop series open to all UC Merced students built around Kouzes & Posner's 5 Practices of Leadership. Earn a certificate upon completion.
• EMPOWER A 6-week program open to all UC Merced students, focused on empowering women-identifying students while building leadership confidence and self-advocacy skills.
• IGNITE For students in cabinet, fraternity/sorority, student staff, or other leadership roles—deepen your skills and bring new resources back to your organization.

1-Year+ Programs

• Yosemite Leadership Program (YLP) The premier student environmental leadership program, fostering collaboration among government, business, and academia to develop innovative, ethical leaders.
• Chancellor's Ambassadors Program A select cohort of 6–8 student leaders serving as official UC Merced representatives at campus functions, alumni gatherings, VIP visits, and donor events.

Partner Programs

• Leadership & Service LLC An opportunity for first-years to learn about service and connect with like-minded students.
• Lift While You Lead A semester-long mentorship of high school students in Women's Studies classes.
• Best You, Best Future A semester-long opportunity to tutor-mentor younger students.