Leadership Readiness Initiative Launches a Year-Long Program
LER’s Leadership Readiness Initiative Launches a Year-Long Program to Empower Students to Learn to Lead Inclusively
— Kim Trahan
The School for Labor and Employment Relations is introducing a transformative year-long virtual Leadership Readiness Coaching for Leading Across Differences Program tailored to support the leadership development needs of World Campus Students. This co-curricular program provides leadership development coaching to enhance leadership effectiveness; help emerging leaders to develop strategies to navigate workplace challenges across diverse teams and perspectives; and learn inclusive leadership skills.
The program seeks to improve leadership readiness by integrating emotional intelligence, cultural intelligence, and conflict resolution into coaching practices to enhance leadership effectiveness. Students will partner with a faculty member in individual coaching sessions to assess their strengths and growth opportunities, develop an action plan, and receive support and feedback for measurable growth using effective research-based strategies.
“Our belief is that leadership development coaching should be readily available to everyone—not just a selected few,” said Kim Trahan, Associate Teaching Professor and part of the leadership team. “This program is designed to meet the specific needs of World Campus students and support their leadership effectiveness and meeting the demands of diverse workplace environments.”
Students will also engage in group coaching sessions led by Frederick Russell, ICF Certified Coach with expertise in inclusive leadership. “I’m looking forward to taking the leadership journey with this incredible group of students during this academic year, in facilitating their growing, evolving, and stretching themselves to be consummate professionals—well equipped to handle the unique challenges that can arise in the workplace.”
Additional workshops focused on the application of leadership skills in the workplace will also be offered.
“This program is about creating a space for World Campus students to explore their leadership potential while addressing the real-world issues they face,” said Brian Redmond, Teaching Professor, member of the leadership team. “We’re excited to offer a supportive environment where students can grow, thrive, and build a foundation for long-term success.”
Participation is limited to 10 students selected through an application process. The program is offered virtually and at no cost thanks to funding from the Penn State Equal Opportunity Planning Committee and the School of Labor and Employment Relations.
Application deadline: October 7, 2026
To receive an application, or if you have questions, please reach out to:
Kim Trahan (kzt74@psu.edu)
Ashley Narehood (adn5149@psu.edu)