What is Leadership UNK?
Leadership UNK is patterned after Leadership Kearney but with an emphasis on the university system. The goal is to familiarize staff employees with leadership opportunities on campus and in the Kearney community and have them go on to accept leadership roles.
Program graduates have a greater awareness of leadership opportunities as well as a higher comfort level when interacting with those in administrative roles (Board of Regents, Chancellor, Vice Chancellors, etc.).
Leadership UNK not only enhances leadership skills but it also increases participants' knowledge of the university system. The program provides opportunities to network with the UNK community, classmates, speakers, and others to discuss issues pertinent to the campus.
- 140+Program Graduates
- 15 YearsOf Leadership Training
- 10Sessions Per Class
How to Apply
Applications are now open for the 2026-27 Leadership UNK class. Any interested UNK Staff Employees are welcome and encouraged to apply. Your application must be submitted by Wednesday, May 31 at 5:00 p.m.
Sessions and Commitments
Participants attend 9 half-day sessions and 1 full-day session to expose them to various aspects of leadership at UNK and the larger University system. Selected candidates are expected to fully engage in all Leadership UNK sessions.
Members of the class will have many opportunities to engage with various issues, exchange ideas, and enhance their leadership skills. During the year following graduation, participants will plan and serve as committee chair for their selected sessions fulfilling the 2-year commitment. In addition to monthly sessions, Leadership UNK members participate in 4 hours of service projects involving UNK programs/events occurring on campus.
Leadership UNK is administered, and class sessions are guided, by program alum who have been selected as members of the Board of Graduates. There is no cost to participate.
Session Topics Include
- Campus and Community Networking
- Team Work and Delegation
- Personal Development
- Motivation and Attitude
- And many more
Program Activities Include
- Creating your Mission Statement
- Board of Regents Meeting
- Etiquette Luncheon
- And more
Leadership UNK Annual Awards
The Leadership UNK Board of Graduates will present two awards yearly to recognize positive leadership efforts by staff on our campus. Nominations for the awards are open mid-February to mid-April. Recipients of the award will be recognized at the LUNK Graduation Ceremony. We encourage faculty and staff to nominate deserving individuals for this recognition.
Founders Award
The Founder’s Award is given to an alumnus of Leadership UNK who has exemplified the spirit and principles of Leadership UNK. Nominations are accepted from all campus employees.
Founders Award 2025: Megan Goeke
Campus Leadership Award
The Campus Leadership Award is reserved for a UNK staff member who has demonstrated positive leadership within their profession and campus community. This does not necessarily have to be an alumnus of Leadership UNK, as we would like to recognize all staff leaders on campus. Any campus employee who has worked to be a positive influence, role model, and contributor to our campus is eligible to be nominated.
Campus Leadership Award 2025: Travis Reynolds
