Format
CFL is a hybrid program with both in-person and Zoom (virtual) classes, providing students with opportunities for meaningful connection while also providing flexibility and convenience. All in-person classes are mandatory, taking place either in or near Spokane, Washington. The 2021-2022 schedule flows as follows:
- Independent assessment work in September
- An overnight, in-person retreat in October (near Spokane)*
- 3-hour Zoom classes two Fridays per month in November, December, and January
- A full-day, in-person class in February (Spokane)*
- 3-hour Zoom classes twice per month in March and April
- Final, in-person class in May (Spokane)*
*Note: Students must be fully vaccinated for COVID to participate in this program, as per Gonzaga University requirements. Exemptions are permissible if signed by a medical provider.
Assessments
The Certificate begins with the completion of two assessments: 1) a '360 review' which will identify your strengths and growth areas, and 2) the ProfileXT Select, which helps you understand how you are 'wired.' In November, you will complete the StrengthsFinder assessment to identify personal and team strengths, and in December you will complete an Emotional Intelligence profile that highlights your emotional intelligence patterns and strategies during stress. These highly personalized assessments provide you with important insights to increase your self-awareness.
Practical Learning
CFL engages students in interactive exercises to learn and practice leadership skills. Using facilitators and guest speakers carefully selected from Gonzaga's network of subject matter experts/practitioners, students have the opportunity to apply leadership concepts to real-life situations. Students are also given opportunities to create and present session material. Class sessions include case studies, scenario practice, and strategies in these focus areas:
- Principles of Leadership
- Emotional Intelligence
- Courageous Communication
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Employee Engagement
- Adaptive Leadership
- Organizational Change Management
- Influential Leadership
Mentorship
Based on your personality, professional development areas, and field, you will be matched with a seasoned and respected leader whose career has included high performance expectations. The expectation is that you meet with your mentor once a month for 1-2 hours from November to May.
Assignments
Each month, you will complete a practical assignment that applies your learning to your work. Assignments will be submitted via email to herzogk@gonzaga.edu and will be graded on a Pass/Fail basis. These assignments may require approximately 2-5 hours of work per month, depending on the assignment and the topic.
2021-2022 Program Fee: $6,900.
- This fee includes all assessments, program materials, food, etc. Students will need to purchase 1-2 books during the program.
- A 30% off scholarship automatically applies to anyone employed by a 501c3 non-profit, or public sector/government agency.
- Additional scholarships are available on a case-by-case basis. To inquire, please email Rachelle Strawther at strawther@gonzaga.edu.
Credit:
- Completion of the Certificate in Foundational Leadership is on a Pass/Fail basis. In addition to receiving the Certificate, students will receive eight (8) credits of Continuing Education credits.
- Students who successfully complete the course have the option applying a maximum of three (3) credits towards completion of a Masters in Organizational Leadership or Masters in Communication and Leadership at Gonzaga, contingent upon admission.
Applications for the fall cohort are reviewed beginning May 1st of each year. Payment is not required at the time of application. Bills will be issued to participants after registration is complete.
