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Dawn Staley Leadership Academy

The Game Plan

Your Leadership Journey

The Dawn Staley Leadership Academy is a signature academic initiative in the College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management that develops purpose-driven, resilient and authentic leaders. Grounded in coach Dawn Staley’s proven leadership, coaching and player-development philosophy, the Academy faculty will develop a curriculum proposal that follows a scaffolded course model to move students from self-leadership fundamentals to industry-specific and real-world application.


Lead yourself. Lift others. Transform communities.


Who am I as a leader?

Centered on the principle, "The Disciplined Person Can Do Anything," leadership begins with understanding yourself. Through guided self-reflection, discipline, case studies and personal discovery, students identify their purpose ("why") and develop a resilient leadership identity grounded in coach Dawn Staley's leadership principles.

How do I help others grow and win?

Staley Leaders will learn to build strong teams as dream merchants through accountability, lifting others, communication, conflict negotiation and an understanding of group dynamics. They will learn how effective leaders create cultures where teams thrive.

How do I lead beyond my title?

 "Hope is a ladder," where leadership extends beyond the individual and the team. Staley Leaders explore advocacy, ethical leadership, influence and the challenges of leading in today's world. Through real-world examples and discussion, they learn how leaders navigate public scrutiny and become game changers who create positive disruption and legacies.

How will I leave a legacy?

 Staley Leaders continue their journey by applying everything they’ve learned through a Community Impact Project centered on mentorship, leadership development, and creating lasting community impact.