Presidential Student Leadership Academy
The Presidential Student Leadership Academy (PSLA) is a program designed to help students develop their leadership skills and appreciate our nation’s cultures and history.
Through a series of activities, you will engage in personal and professional leadership development to help prepare you for future higher education and career endeavors.
Have questions? Email: psl-academy@hx55.net.
Welcome to the Presidential Student Leadership Academy webpage. I am very pleased that you are here, very proud of this program, and hope that you will seriously consider applying for this unique opportunity to experience and learn about leadership in this ever-changing and demanding world. As you might have heard me say over these past few years, “Leadership matters!” Whether you are a member of a student-led club or honor society, an athletic team, a classroom, a volunteer organization, or a college community, leadership determines the quality and values that drive the mission and accomplishments of that group. When you graduate from Delaware Tech, leadership will determine the quality and values of your work experience, the quality of life that you live, and the type of world we leave for the future. The goal of this program is to help you prepare for those opportunities.
Through a series of activities over the next few months – readings, discussion groups, writing reflections, a trip to Washington, D.C., and capstone meeting – we will explore themes such as self-awareness, empathy, servant leadership, compassion, critical thinking and the role of history in our present-day decision making. To lead these activities and provide participants with a meaningful, high quality leadership experience, I will be joined by members of the College’s senior administrative team in the weeks ahead to personally convene and facilitate.
There is no question that leadership involves having talent and expertise in one’s career endeavors, but there is so much more. And we are going to tap into some of the “more” during our weeks together. If you are selected to participate, I am confident that the PSLA will engage you in very memorable ways to increase your knowledge of this very important topic, while also expanding your view of national history and cultural awareness, all to influence your growth as a future leader.
Who is eligible to apply?
The following are required of all applicants:
- Be in good academic standing (2.5+ GPA preferred) and have completed 12+ credits at Delaware Tech
- Be registered in spring 2026 classes unless graduated in the previous summer or fall semesters
- Complete an application to the Presidential Student Leadership Academy
- Participate in an interview with the selection committee
- Commit to participation in all activities associated with the Academy
What will you experience as a member of the Presidential Student Leadership Academy?
- Opportunities to build relationships with Delaware Tech administrators and other student leaders
- Trip to Washington, D.C. to tour museums and explore the National Mall
- Participation in leadership group meetings, book reflections, selected article discussions, and guest speakers during the semester
Timeline and Activities
| Activity | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | October 17, 2025 |
| Application Closes | December 1, 2025 |
| Students Notified of Eligibility/Next Steps | December 10, 2025 |
| Interviews Conducted | January 12 - 17, 2026 |
| Students Notified of Acceptance | By January 23, 2026 |
| Book Pick-Up | January 26 – 30, 2026 |
| Kick-Off Meeting/Book Reflection I Location: Terry Campus, Dover |
February 27, 2026 |
| Book Reflection II Location: Stanton, Terry, and Owens Campus HyFlex Rooms |
March 20, 2026 |
| Washington, D.C. | April 17, 2026 |
| Book Reflection III Location: Stanton, Terry, and Owens Campus HyFlex Rooms |
May 8, 2026 |
| Capstone Luncheon & Awards Location: Terry Campus, Dover |
May 22, 2026 |
* 2026 PSLA dates and locations are subject to change
Leadership Group Meetings and Book Reflections
PSLA accepted members are required to read The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne and attend leadership meetings and book reflections. The novel tells a story about an unlikely friendship that forms between two boys during World War II in Central Europe. Readers explore several real-life lessons and themes focused on friendship, humanity, compassion, prejudice, and obedience.
Washington D.C. Trip Overview
Students will visit Washington D.C. for a series of activities and visits to national landmarks. More details will be provided in Spring.
Hear What Previous PSLA Participants Have to Say...
Frequently Asked Questions
The PSLA is a competitive program, and space is limited with only 25 spots available.
A committee comprised of Delaware Tech administrators will review the applications and select eligible students to participate in group interviews. Based upon the review of applications, a committee will select a maximum of 25 students. The committee will select participants based on their potential and desire to develop into a leader at Delaware Tech and in their community. Students will be notified about acceptance through their Delaware Tech email account.
The cost of the program is free for students participating in the program. The College will cover the materials and travel expenses.
In order to participate in the PSLA, students must:
- Be in good academic standing (2.5+ GPA preferred) and have completed 12+ credits at Delaware Tech
- Be registered in spring 2026 classes unless graduated in the previous summer or fall semesters
- Complete an application to the Presidential Student Leadership Academy
- Participate in an interview with the selection committee
- Commit to participation in all activities associated with the Academy
Yes, students who graduate during the current academic year are eligible to participate.
The PSLA includes leadership group meetings, book reflections, and activities, including a trip to Washington, D.C. and a capstone meeting. Participants should plan to spend about 3-5 hours a week to complete assigned readings and leadership group meetings and book reflections. Participants must also be available to attend all activities. Details for all required meetings and activities are located on the PSLA website.
Yes, PSLA participants are required to attend all sessions (see schedule) to be eligible for program completion. An excused absence for extenuating circumstances must have prior written approval by the PSLA coordinator; the request must be made in writing to psl-academy@hx55.net.
Before committing to the program, participants should confirm availability to participate in all mandatory meetings and activities.
The trip to Washington, D.C. will cover concepts such as diversity, multiculturalism, and social justice that will be explored through participation in museum and historical visits. Travel costs and meals are covered by the program. If you are interested in purchasing gift store items or other items, please bring additional spending money. Professional attire is expected - smart casual or business casual recommended.
Participants who complete all the requirements will be recognized at the capstone luncheon with Delaware Tech administrators and receive a “Y” grade on their transcript showing successful completion of the academy.
Participants will be required to complete an exit survey after the capstone meeting.