Illinois Leadership® Center

A big congratulations to our Data Analytics Specialists who shared their research projects at the Undergraduate Research Symposium! 🎉📊 These students collaborated with Illinois faculty on research projects focusing on leadership initiatives. 📈👏

Congratulations to everyone who completed the Leadership Certificate Program this year! 🎉

These students have committed to their personal growth as leaders by engaging in leadership courses, ILC programs, and co-curricular team experiences. We are so proud of their dedication and accomplishment!

Curiosity is the engine of impactful leadership.
In Episode 10 of Made to Lead, we’re joined by Robb Lindgren to explore how cultivating curiosity in STEM education can shape innovative, inclusive, and forward‑thinking leaders. This conversation dives into how learning, technology, and curiosity intersect to drive leadership that adapts and evolves.
🎧 Episode out now — listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts 🦁

Leadership that lasts, starts with empowerment.

In Episode 9 of Made to Lead, we’re joined by Phillip Wilder to explore how literacy, self-awareness, and understanding can create better leadership. This conversation dives into what it truly means to lead in ways that extend beyond yourself.

🎧 Episode out now - listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts 🦁

The Illinois Leadership® Center (ILC) is thrilled to celebrate two of our own, Sofia Espolong Kanda and Isabella Igbo, for their outstanding recognition at last week’s Student Employee of the Year Ceremony. 🎉

Both Sofia and Isabella were nominated and honored for their dedication, initiative, and the leadership they bring to our office every day. We are incredibly proud to have them on our team and grateful for the impact they continue to make on the ILC community. Congratulations, Sofia and Isabella! 🦁🧡

On April 8 and 9, participants joined us for our Telling My Leadership Story workshop, which brought together voices, experiences, and reflections that remind us leadership is personal and powerful.

Thank you to all who shared their journey with us! 🌟 📖

On April 3, students, staff, and faculty came together for our Faculty Fellow Symposium to explore leadership through the lens of innovation and the adoption of new technology. 💡

Through engaging discussion and shared perspectives, participants examined how leaders can navigate change, embrace new ideas, and thoughtfully integrate technology into their work.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this insightful conversation and contributed to a space of learning, curiosity, and connection! 🦁

On April 7th, Participants joined us for Leadership in Team Development: From Start to Success 💡, which explored how teams evolve, tackled common group challenges, and practiced the skills needed to move through each stage of development with purpose.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this engaging lab, and stay tuned for our upcoming leadership opportunities! 🦁

Happy Student Employee Appreciation Week! 🧡

This week, we’re celebrating the incredible student employees who help make the Illinois Leadership Center a welcoming, impactful space for growth and connection. From supporting programs and events to working behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly, their dedication, leadership, and hard work make a lasting difference every day.

Thank you for all that you do to support the student body and strengthen our community, we appreciate you this week and always! 🦁✨

On March 25th and 26th, participants joined us for our Leading with Empathy and Compassion workshop, where they explored how empathy can strengthen leadership through building trust and fostering meaningful relationships. 🦁

During the workshop, students practiced active listening and explored strategies for leading with care while maintaining boundaries.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this session and helped create a space centered on empathy, connection, and growth! 🌟💫