From the Nominator

The Johns Hopkins Leadership Fellows Program is a university-wide initiative designed to identify, train, and engage high-potential volunteer leaders. This cohort-based learning experience equips volunteers with the knowledge, connections, and skills necessary to effectively serve the university. This year, the program celebrates 10 years of impact, successfully engaging future leaders through in-person meetings, training sessions, exclusive events, and virtual check-ins. Participants, nominated by university leadership, undergo a two-year curriculum covering university operations, governance, philanthropy, and much more. Sessions include discussions with deans, trustees, and financial leaders, as well as research lab tours, institutional strategy meetings, and other immersive experiences. The Leadership Fellows Program addresses a critical challenge: ensuring volunteer leaders understand the university landscape and are well-prepared for their roles at Johns Hopkins. The result has been a significant increase in leadership engagement, financial contributions, and cross-divisional collaboration. As of this year, 80 of 115 program emeriti served or are serving on divisional boards and councils, with nine emeriti joining the University Board of Trustees. Participants also increased their financial contributions, demonstrating a deeper commitment to the university’s mission. With a 565% return on investment, the Leadership Fellows Program is a replicable model for other institutions seeking to cultivate dedicated and informed volunteer leaders.

From the Judges

This holistic initiative was outstanding and executed extremely well. It is not as replicable for institutions with fewer resources. But it was clearly well structured and delivered, with excellent results.