Grow to your full potential. The Donald V. Adams Leadership Institute (ALI) is Drake University’s signature leadership development program, helping undergraduates build the self-awareness, confidence, and practical skills needed to thrive in college and beyond.
Admitted students gain access to exclusive events, workshops, networking opportunities, and a close-knit community of peers committed to personal growth. Along the way, they build meaningful relationships and leadership capacity that empower them to make a positive impact on campus, in their careers, and the causes and communities they care most about.
A personalized leadership development experience combines interactive training, meaningful relationships, hands-on skill building, and real-world application to help you thrive in college and beyond.
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.
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.
You won't navigate your leadership journey alone. Adams Institute students are mentored by senior participants, dedicated staff coaches, and campus and community partners who provide encouragement, guidance, and real-world insight as participants grow in confidence, develop practical skills, and prepare for life beyond Drake.
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.
Students have completed the Adams Leadership Institute program since its inception.
Of program completers indicate the Institute was one of their most influential experiences at a Drake student.
worth of supplies, training, and coaching materials provided to each institute student at no cost, thanks to the generous support of our Institute alumni and donors.
Most students gain leadership experience in college. The Adams Institute's nationally-recognized curriculum helps them gain the skills, confidence, and self-awareness needed to make the most of those experiences.
Through hands-on activities, meaningful reflection, and real-world application, students develop practical skills they can immediately use in college, leadership roles, internships, and future careers.
Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, all training, coaching, materials, and experiences are provided at no additional cost to participants. The Institute also awards annual scholarships to outstanding student leaders.
"I learned tangible skills that I could apply to my Drake experience and skills that I will bring to my professional career. Without this experience, I would never have had the confidence to run and win the role of Student Body President, my single greatest achievement thus far."
"From learning how to manage finances effectively, to presenting myself professionally, to prioritizing my well-being, the program has empowered me to show up as my best self every day. This foundation will serve me well as I pursue a career dedicated to advocacy and justice."
“The Adams Institute has helped me to improve myself in a way that schoolwork, lectures, nor work experience could have - its benefits are unique and seem perfectly tailored for Drake student leaders. It has been one of the most rewarding programs I’ve ever been part of.”
“Personally, I felt able to take control of making friends and creating strong habits. Professionally, I felt comfortable giving presentations and communicating to leadership confidently from the jump due to the skills I gained in the Adams Institute.”
Follow the instructions below to apply to the Adams Leadership Institute, where you'll build confidence, develop practical life and leadership skills, and connect with a community of students committed to personal growth.
The Adams Leadership Institute is designed for students from every major, background, and experience level. Whether you're already involved on campus or simply looking to build confidence, develop practical life skills, and connect with a community of growth-minded peers, the Institute provides a place to learn, practice, and grow.
Fall 2026 students: early decision applications are open for all incoming students planning to arrive in fall 2026. Please visit the link below to access the ALI application.
Please reach out to Kristin Economos Novotny, Senior Director of the Adams Leadership Institute, at kristin.economos@drake.edu to see if you are eligible to apply.
Want to learn more about the program or how you can participate? We’d love to hear from you.
Kristin Economos Novotny
Senior Director of the Adams Leadership Institute
kristin.economos@drake.edu
