Distinguished leaders join the University of Chicago to design and activate next chapter of impact.
One year ago, the University of Chicago launched the Leadership & Society Initiative (LSI) Fellowship to empower accomplished individuals with the intellectual environment, resources, and tools to discover meaningful next chapters for society.
Today, LSI welcomes 23 world-class leaders—selected from a pool of more than 350 candidates from around the world—to the fellowship. These Fellows will spend the academic year immersed in a transformative journey deeply rooted in the liberal arts, the pursuit of breakthrough ideas, and a commitment to impact across one’s life.
“We have selected individuals who have led at the highest levels of the private, social, and public sectors,” said Seth Green, dean of the University of Chicago Graham School, a partner in LSI. “Even better than the experiences they bring, each Fellow is deeply committed to harnessing their immense talents to make a positive difference in the world.”
At the heart of the experience is a carefully crafted curriculum designed to guide Fellows through self-reflection to gain perspective on their life journey and future vision. Fellows begin the academic year by reflecting on their life’s work, values, and purpose; then, they explore urgent societal challenges with a focus on topics that align with their values. The year culminates with each Fellow presenting a Purpose Plan that lays out their vision for a fulfilling next chapter.
“Fellows experience a shared and powerful peer-learning journey while having the opportunity to individually explore University resources that most align with their learning objectives,” said Diana Petty, director of the Leadership and Society Initiative. “The University meaningfully supports Fellows at this inflection point in their lives, and their level of experience and accomplishment adds extraordinary perspective to our campus community.”
LSI also announced four Advanced Fellows. These leaders completed the fellowship as part of LSI’s inaugural cohort and now seek to activate their purpose plans through engagement with University resources and participation in an LSI incubator aimed at empowering Fellows to bring their vision to life.
“Across the 23 Fellows and four Advanced Fellows in our second cohort, we are building a collaborative and enduring leadership ecosystem that empowers individuals to drive significant, positive societal impact,” continued Green.
To learn more about the second LSI cohort please view our current Fellows page.
The Leadership and Society Initiative welcomes two new team members, Michelle Argento and Kelly Morgan, who will strengthen recruitment and program operations as the Initiative continues to grow and expand opportunities for leaders pursuing purpose-driven next chapters.
Kerry Burnight shares how growth, connection, adaptability, and contribution shape a life well-lived.
The inaugural Fellows in the Imagine Pathway gathered on campus to begin a shared journey of reflection, inquiry, and purposeful exploration.