President's Emerging Leaders Program

PELP Students

Students selected for the President's Emerging Leaders Program (PELP) exemplify the vision and values of Austin Peay State University by striving for academic excellence and putting service above self. Twenty incoming freshmen are chosen each year for a four-year leadership development experience. Selection involves an application, essay responses, a letter of recommendation, and an interview with the Director and current PELP students. Those selected receive an annual scholarship of $3,000, renewable for four years.

Mentorship is built into the program from day one. Each incoming freshman is paired with a sophomore PELP mentor, and during their sophomore year, students are matched with a university alumnus or alumna who is active in their community and can offer career guidance and professional advice. Throughout their four years at APSU, PELP students have regular opportunities to engage with alumni across a wide range of fields.

Requirements

• Maintain a cumulative collegiate GPA of 3.50 or higher

• Enroll in at least 12 credit hours per semester

• Take and pass the required PELP course each semester

• Complete 40 hours of community service each academic year

Students may also be asked to participate in other university or community events.

Our Approach

PELP develops well-rounded leaders by focusing on:

• Communication techniques, problem-solving, and conflict resolution

• Learning from campus and community leaders about diverse leadership styles

• Community service and civic engagement

• Applying leadership skills in real-world situations on and off campus

• Understanding personal and group strengths and weaknesses

• The essential connections between ethics and leadership

• Local and global perspectives on the demands of leadership

• The workings of government at the local, state, and national level

Apply to the President's Emerging Leaders Program

Mission, Vision, and Values

Our Mission

The President's Emerging Leaders Program provides a select group of students a toolkit for developing their inherent leadership qualities. Through mentoring, networking, and acquiring the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of leadership, PELP students prepare to engage with organizations large and small.

Our Vision

PELP will send into the global community a diverse cohort of young leaders who are focused on helping others achieve their goals and prepared to undertake difficult and unpredictable challenges.

Our Values

• Integrity

• Humility

• Ethical behavior

• Commitment to service

• Compassion

• Character development

• Mentorship