Hawk Leadership Institute (HLI)
Lead with purpose. Grow with a community. Inspire your campus.
The Hawk Leadership Institute (HLI) is a yearlong co-curricular leadership development program designed to empower UHCL students to grow as self-aware, values-driven, and community-focused leaders. Through interactive workshops, mentorship, retreats, and service experiences, HLI helps students build practical leadership skills while forming meaningful relationships and contributing to their campus community.
Mission
The mission of the Hawk Leadership Institute is to develop ethical, reflective, and confident student leaders through intentional leadership education, mentorship, and experiential learning. HLI encourages students to lead with integrity, build strong relationships, and make a positive impact at UHCL and beyond.
Vision
HLI envisions a UHCL community where students recognize their leadership potential, apply their strengths in meaningful ways, and engage actively in their personal and professional development.
Who Can Join?
HLI is open to all UHCL students, including both undergraduate and graduate students, from any academic discipline. Whether you're just beginning your leadership journey or looking to sharpen your leadership skills, HLI offers a welcoming space to learn, grow, and lead.
What to Expect
HLI is a voluntary, non-credit program that runs from September through April. Students who complete the program are recognized at the annual HLI Ceremony and may be considered for leadership awards based on their engagement and contributions.
As a participant, you will:
- Attend weekly leadership education sessions on Fridays
- Complete a team-based Collaborative Leadership Project
- Participate in a Fall Retreat and a spring Conference
- Take part in campus and community service experiences
- Build relationships with a peer mentor and fellow student leaders
Learning Components
The HLI curriculum is grounded in leadership theory and emphasizes practical skill development. Students explore leadership through:
- Leadership Identity & Self-Awareness – Values, strengths, personal mission
- Communication & Emotional Intelligence – Active listening, empathy, feedback
- Resilience & Self-Management – Growth mindset, reflection, adaptability
- Teamwork & Group Dynamics – Collaboration, conflict resolution, accountability
- Ethical Leadership & Decision-Making – Integrity, responsibility, professionalism
- Community Engagement – Leadership through service and civic involvement
- Application & Reflection – Through mentorship, service, and capstone projects
Instruction is influenced by leadership development literature, including the Social Change Model, Leadership Identity Development Model (Komives), and Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory.
Learning Outcomes
By completing the program, students will be able to:
- Identify and articulate their personal leadership values and strengths
- Demonstrate effective teamwork, communication, and resilience
- Apply leadership principles through a campus-based team project
- Make informed and ethical leadership decisions
- Engage in community-focused leadership through service and collaboration
- Reflect on their growth and articulate their leadership development journey
Program Requirements
To successfully complete HLI, students must:
- Attend weekly education sessions throughout the academic year
- Participate in the Fall Retreat (October 3)
- Attend the Conference (January 31)
- Complete and present a Collaborative Leadership Project
- Attend the HLI Ceremony (April 10)
- Stay actively involved in mentorship, group engagement, and service activities
Why Join?
By participating in HLI, students will:
- Develop a strong foundation in leadership identity and core values
- Gain practical experience through service and project implementation
- Strengthen key skills such as communication, resilience, and collaboration
- Build meaningful connections with peers, mentors, and campus partners
- Be formally recognized for their leadership achievements at the HLI Ceremony
Apply Now – Fall 2025 Cohort
Applications are now open for the 2025–2026 HLI cohort! All currently enrolled UHCL students are eligible to apply—no prior leadership experience required.
The application process includes:
- A short online application
- A brief interview (virtual or in person)
- Program selection is based on availability and student interest
Become an HLI Mentor
HLI graduates and current Year Two students in good standing are invited to apply for the HLI Peer Mentor team. Mentors serve as leadership role models, support student learning, guide Collaborative Leadership Projects, and help lead key program events.
Applications are now open for 2025–2026 Peer Mentors.
Questions?
Contact us for more information:
Dr. Jordan Jones, Director, Student Involvement and Leadership Email: jonesjor@uhcl.edu Phone: 281-283-2551
Alumni Testimonials
"The Hawk Leadership Institute [...] helped me find and build connections around campus and to get involved with an amazing group of peers." - Areeba Imran, Hawk Leadership Institute Participant
"Through the Hawk Leadership Institute, I discovered the knowledge and self-confidence that I needed to be a leader. Through my involvement in this leadership program, I made a family away from home. Had I not joined the Hawk Leadership Institute, I do not think I would have been very involved or have a memorable experience during my college career."- Sam Alexander, Hawk Leadership Institute Participant
Contact
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Student Involvement and Leadership
Phone: 281-283-2560
Fax: 281-283-2566
Email: getinvolved@uhcl.edu
SSCB 1204
2700 Bay Area Blvd, Box 198
Houston, TX 77058-1002
Regular office hours:
Mon. - Thurs., 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Fri. - 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Please call ahead during holidays and semester breaks.
