Students help with landscape clean up.

Leadership Programs

Leadership has a central role at Oxford. Our small-scale, residential environment lets you engage deeply in campus life and develop your leadership skills.

Unlike any other liberal arts college in the country, our first- and second-year students are wholly responsible for the leadership of campus organizations and activities. This gives you uncommon opportunities to lead. 

The staff of our Office of Student Involvement and Leadership provides many opportunities for you to discover your talents and grow your leadership skills.

Leadership Oxford

A weeklong, spring semester training seminar for first-year students that prepares them to take the helm in student organizations during their second year. Culminates in a weekend of team training in the North Georgia mountains. 

ExCEL

A fall semester training seminar is for second-year students already involved in campus organizations, and it culminates in a weekend of team training in the North Georgia mountains.

Emerging Leaders Summit

This annual weekend seminar features a nationally known speaker and numerous activities that help students take their leadership skills to the next level. 

Pierce Leadership Certificate Program

You can apply to join the Pierce Leadership Certificate program in the fall of your first year. If accepted, you’ll attend an overnight retreat in January with fellow participants to explore leadership principles and ideas, work together as part of a team, and gain a deeper understanding of your strengths and values.

Faculty and staff specializing in leadership will help you integrate lessons learned both in and outside the classroom. You’ll further develop your skills while preparing to assume leadership positions on campus and in the community.

Throughout your two years at Oxford, you’ll complete coursework and move through the program as a cohort, attending regular meetings together, participating in service, and growing and developing as leaders. If you fulfill the program requirements, Oxford will award you a leadership certificate and present you with a medal to wear at Commencement.