President's Leadership Program
Christopher Newport University: Leaders of Character. Lives of Impact.
The President’s Leadership Program (PLP) is more than an academic experience, it’s a dynamic community for students who want to grow, challenge themselves, and make a meaningful impact. Whether you already see yourself as a leader or are just beginning to explore your potential, PLP meets you where you are and helps you go further. Through a powerful blend of academics, experiential learning, and leader development, you’ll gain the skills, confidence and perspective to lead with purpose in a complex, ever-changing world.
Over four years, you’ll build strong relationships, engage deeply with your community, and develop the character, judgment, and adaptability that define effective leaders. From hands-on experiences to thoughtful reflection, PLP prepares you to turn ideas into action, navigate challenges with integrity, and create lasting impact wherever your path leads.
How to Apply
Applying to PLP is simple and built right into your application to Christopher Newport. When you apply using the Common Application, just select “Yes” for the President’s Leadership Program in the scholarships section; a separate application is not required.
From there, you’ll complete a few short essay questions and schedule your admission interview. This streamlined process is designed to make it easy to be considered for one of CNU’s most distinctive leadership experiences.
To receive priority consideration for PLP scholarships, apply to CNU by the November 15 Early Decision or December 1 Early Action deadlines and complete your essays and interview by December 15.
Applications are reviewed holistically, focusing on your academic achievement and leadership potential, whether that’s through formal roles or your initiative to make an impact. If you decide to apply to PLP later, you can still access the application through your Applicant Portal after submitting your admission application.
Leadership in Action
Leadership isn’t something you just study in PLP, it’s something you practice and live. Through immersive, hands-on experiences, you’ll apply what you learn in real-world settings that challenge you to think critically, collaborate effectively, and lead with confidence. From global competitions to community-based work, every experience is designed to help you turn ideas into action and grow as a leader.
Real-World Learning
Engage with complex, real-life challenges that reflect the decisions leaders face every day. Through dynamic, applied learning experiences, you’ll strengthen your ability to think strategically, communicate clearly, and solve problems in a supportive, high-impact environment.
International Competitions
Take your leadership skills to the global stage. PLP students regularly compete in (and win!) prestigious events like the International Leadership Association’s Student Case Study Competition and the Global Followership Conference in cities like Prague, gaining international perspective, experience, and recognition.
Community Engagement
At the heart of PLP is a commitment to servant leadership, inspired by Robert Greenleaf’s philosophy that the best leaders begin by serving others. You’ll engage in meaningful service that strengthens communities and develops your ability to lead with empathy, integrity, and purpose. Whether volunteering with local organizations, tutoring students, or supporting regional initiatives, you’ll make a tangible impact on campus, in Newport News, and beyond, while growing into a leader who lifts others along the way.
Internships
Gain real-world experience and build meaningful connections through internship opportunities across industries. From international businesses and scientific research to arts and nonprofit organizations, you’ll work alongside professionals, explore career paths, and develop the skills and confidence to lead in your chosen field.
Leadership Studies
Leadership is about earning trust and creating meaningful change by shaping vision, values, and culture in ways that move people and organizations forward. Today’s world needs ethical leaders who can recognize complex challenges, raise awareness, develop thoughtful solutions, and inspire others to act. That’s why PLP includes a rigorous academic experience designed to prepare you for this kind of impact.
All PLP students complete the leadership studies minor, an interdisciplinary program that complements any major. Through engaging coursework and real-world applications, you’ll deepen your understanding of leadership while building the skills to lead with clarity, integrity, and purpose, wherever your path takes you.
The President’s Leadership Program Scholarship
The President’s Leadership Program recognizes your potential with a renewable scholarship that supports your growth as a leader. Incoming freshmen selected for PLP receive annual awards of $1,000 or $5,000, renewable each year you live on campus, provided you maintain strong academic performance and remain in good standing with the University and the program.
High-achieving students selected for both PLP and the Honors Program may be invited to compete for designation as a Presidential Scholar. This distinction includes an increased annual award of $10,000, with additional funding to support a cohort-based study abroad experience, expanding your leadership journey on a global scale.
An Experience That Sets You Apart
PLP offers more than opportunities, it provides personalized support, meaningful connections, and access to experiences that elevate your college journey and prepare you for what comes next.
Starting in your first semester, you’ll be paired with a dedicated leadership coach who supports your growth and answers your questions. Through regular one-on-one conversations, you’ll reflect on your experiences, set goals, and receive personalized guidance to help you grow as a leader, academically, professionally, and personally.
Engage directly with accomplished leaders who bring real-world insight and inspiration to campus. Through the President’s Leadership Speaker Series, you’ll hear from influential voices across industries, from business and government to the arts and nonprofit sectors, while participating in meaningful conversations that challenge your thinking and expand your perspective.
When you join PLP, you become part of a respected and connected community of alumni who are making an impact in their fields and communities. PLP graduates are known for their character, professionalism, and ability to lead, opening doors to opportunities, mentorship, and a lifelong network that supports your continued success.
Expand your perspective. Lead with a global mindset. PLP encourages you to see leadership beyond borders. Through study abroad opportunities, you’ll explore new cultures, engage with global challenges, and deepen your understanding of leadership in an international context. These experiences broaden your perspective, strengthen your adaptability, and prepare you to lead in an increasingly connected world.
Leadership starts on campus, and PLP students are actively engaged in the life of the University. Whether through clubs, athletics, Greek life, or campus activities, every student is encouraged to get involved, and most take on multiple roles that help them grow, connect, and lead.
With more than 200 student organizations, you’ll have countless opportunities to explore your interests, discover new passions, and make your mark. Many PLP students go on to serve as mentors and ambassadors, helping guide future leaders and strengthen the CNU community.
In your final year, you’ll bring together everything you’ve gained through PLP - on campus, in the community, and in the classroom - to reflect on how you’ve grown as a leader and who you’ve become. Through guided reflection and shared experiences, you’ll prepare for what comes next with clarity and confidence.
Throughout the year, you’ll celebrate your journey alongside your PLP cohort, culminating in a senior celebration prior to commencement that honors your achievements and marks your completion of the program.
High School Leadership Institute
High school groups are invited to CNU’s campus for a dynamic, full-day experience designed to inspire and empower future leaders. Students participate in team-building activities, interactive workshops, and candid conversations with current CNU students, gaining valuable insight into leadership, service and the college experience.
Each visit is customizable to your goals, giving students the opportunity to build skills, explore their potential, and return to school ready to lead.
