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Leadership Fellows Program

Investing in the next generation of Leaders. Investing in you.

Cal State Monterey Bay proudly invites you to apply for the Leadership Fellows Program, a selective, cohort-based opportunity for new, incoming first-time students and first-year transfer students who are ready to lead, serve, and drive meaningful change.

Each year, 25 students are selected to join a dynamic cohort focused on leadership development, career readiness, and community impact across the tri-county region of Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz counties. Rooted in the mission of CSUMB, Fellows work on real regional challenges while developing the skills, confidence, and experience to lead in college, career, and community settings.

Ideal candidates are students who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to service. Leadership may be shown through school activities, employment, caregiving, student government, advocacy, or community involvement.

Selected Leadership Fellows will receive a scholarship of $2,000 for active participation and engagement in the program that includes mentorship, hands-on projects, leadership training, and connection with campus and regional leaders. A second-year advanced leadership track and scholarship is also available for selected returning Fellows.

To be considered, please submit the Otter Leadership Fellows Program application before the May 18, 2026 deadline. Completed applications will be reviewed by the selection committee and students will be notified of the decision within two weeks after the deadline.

Apply Now

Overview

Program Details

Year 1: Foundations of Leadership

Begin your journey with a mid-August cohort retreat where you’ll build community and explore your identity, values, and purpose as a leader at CSUMB.
Participate in monthly large-group sessions focused on leadership development topics such as strengths, equity, communication, and teamwork.
Meet monthly in small groups led by a trained peer mentor to reflect, build connections, and apply what you’re learning.
Engage directly with campus and regional leaders through panels and conversations focused on real issues in Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz counties.
Starting in the spring, join a hands-on service project designed by second-year Fellows, and close the year by developing your own leadership philosophy while learning facilitation and evaluation skills.
Conclude the year by participating in an end-of-program symposium where you will reflect on your growth, share your experiences, and celebrate your accomplishments alongside your cohort.

Year 2: Leadership in Action (by invitation)

Return in mid-August for advanced training in facilitation and peer mentorship to prepare for your role as a leader in the program.
Lead a small group of first-year Fellows, facilitating monthly discussions, activities, and reflections throughout the year.
Work in teams to design a service project in partnership with a local community organization, then present your project to the Year 1 cohort for implementation.
Guide and support first-year students as they carry out your project during the spring semester.
Participate in advanced workshops on coaching, project management, and professional development while building connections with campus and regional leaders.
Conclude your experience by presenting your project’s impact and reflecting on your leadership growth and future goals.
Conclude your experience by presenting your project’s impact at an end-of-program symposium, reflecting on your leadership growth, and celebrating the achievements of the Fellows community.

Eligibility

Incoming first-time freshman or first-year transfer student
3.0 overall GPA
Commitment to full participation in the program
Interest in leadership, service, and working across diverse communities and perspectives

Contact Us

Questions or concerns? Please contact leadershipfellows@csumb.edu for more information about the CSUMB Leadership and Service Fellows Program