Donald V. Adams Leadership Institute
Build a Life Worth Following
Grow to your full potential. The Donald V. Adams Leadership Institute (ALI) encourages undergraduates to start making a difference through a three-part training series intended to foster self-awareness, collaboration, and perspective-taking—skills that you’ll use to enrich the Drake University campus and your personal life before you venture into the workforce.
Admitted students gain access to personalized training, strategic skill development, and a close-knit group of aspiring leaders as they prepare to make a meaningful impact in their careers, communities, and the causes they care about.
What to Expect
A comprehensive approach builds your capacities through classroom instruction, community support, leadership events, and opportunities for real-world engagement.
Leadership Training
As the core of the program, a structured sequence of three modules complements real-world leadership experiences and trains you in the habits and practices of effective leaders.
Leadership Events and Activities
At a variety of annual events and activities, you’ll gain unique insights from leadership experts, expand your professional network, and see your campus contributions celebrated.
Mentorship and Professional Development
Peer mentoring is an integral part of the Adams Leadership Institute. During your time in the program, you’ll receive guidance from senior student leaders as you hone key professional competencies through collaborative experiences.
Interns and Community Building
Through a paid internship, you’ll help new students integrate into the Institute community, serve as an ambassador for the program, and even facilitate training for first-year participants.
Scholarships
Scholarships recognize outstanding student leaders and unlock additional sources of funding for your Drake studies.
About Us
Founded in 2000 to expand the legacy of Drake professor Donald V. Adams, the Institute has shaped thousands of Bulldogs since its inception. Program alumni embody core values like responsibility and curiosity as they amplify their impact and inspire change in their communities.
Over
Students have received leadership training since 2000.
Sequential training modules provide a structured path of personalized leadership development.
Student leadership awards given each year to recognize exceptional contributions.
How Do I Apply?
Begin your journey into more effective leadership, whether you’re entering your first year in the fall or desire to deepen your skills as a continuing student.
Eligibility
This co-curricular leadership opportunity is available to students from all academic disciplines and majors at no additional cost, thanks to the generous support of Drake alumni and friends of Dr. Donald V. Adams, Professor Emeritus.
Fall 2026 Students
Fall 2026 students: early decision applications are open for all incoming students planning to arrive in fall 2026. Please use your Drake Admission log-in credentials to access the ALI application.
All Other Students
Please reach out to Kristin Economos, Senior Director of the Adams Leadership Institute, at kristin.economos@drake.edu to see if you are eligible to apply.
How to Contact Us
Want to learn more about the program or how you can participate? We’d love to hear from you.
Contact
Kristin Economos
Senior Director of the Adams Leadership Institute
kristin.economos@drake.edu
