Cook Leadership Academy launches new badging system; applications close Feb. 22

The Peter C. Cook Leadership Academy, part of Grand Valley's Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies, has launched a new badging system that will help academy fellows better highlight what they learn in the program. 

Grace Tummel, program manager of the Cook Leadership Academy, said the students who meet program requirements will now leave the program with six leadership competency badges which will enable students to more effectively share specific skills they learned through the program.

The badges are a micro-credential from an accredited third party that can be highlighted on resumes or job applications.

Academy fellows this year are earning credentials in self-understanding, productive relationships, social justice, conflict negotiation, vision and responding to ambiguity.

Next year, the program will focus on problem-solving, empowerment, social responsibility, listening, ethics, and responding to change. 

"We work intentionally with our students to build these skills throughout the year, and practice the skills and learn about why they are important to leadership," Tummel said. "The badging component can help our fellows articulate to potential employers what leadership skills they've developed."

The Cook Leadership Academy is a cohort of approximately 60 students from diverse backgrounds who gather to self-reflect and develop their leadership skills. The program also has a robust mentorship program component that pairs community and business leaders with students for real-world leadership and learning experiences.

The academy also hosts the Wheelhouse Talks, a series of lectures from proven leaders who recount life experiences and leadership tips.

Applications for the Cook Leadership Academy are currently open, with applications and nominations available through February 22. Applications can be found online at the Cook Leadership Academy site.