The JoAnn Martin Leadership Academy is a selective leadership development experience at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln designed for students who want to build their skills, grow their confidence, and business knowledge to lead in their careers and communities.
Through hands-on learning, executive engagement, and individualized coaching, JMLA helps you turn your leadership potential into real-world impact.
Applications are now open for Fall 2026. Application Deadline: April 24.
Why Join the JoAnn Martin Leadership Academy?
Leadership is one of the most valuable skills you can bring to any career and one of the biggest ways you can set yourself apart. Employers consistently seek graduates who can communicate effectively, collaborate with others, think strategically, and make sound decisions.
JMLA helps you build these capabilities through a highly interactive and supportive learning environment. So you graduate not just with potential, but with proven leadership experience.
Through this experience, you will:
- Clarify your leadership strengths. Discover what makes you an effective leader through the CliftonStrengths assessment and strengths coaching.
- Build real-world business knowledge. Understand how organizations operate, make decisions, and create value across industries.
- Strengthen career readiness. Develop a strong resume, professional brand, and networking skills that help you stand out to employers and feel prepared for what comes next.
- Practice leadership in action. Work through real leadership scenarios involving communication, decision-making, ethics, and team dynamics.
- Connect with influential leaders. Engage with executives, community leaders, and mentors who share their insights and career journeys.
- Create your personal leadership strategy. Develop a clear vision for how you will lead in your career and community.
What You'll Experience
JMLA combines leadership development, career readiness, and real-world business learning, giving you insights and experiences that goes beyond the classroom. You’ll leave with direction, not just ideas, and be able to use the experience as a talking point in future interviews and apply directly in your own career.
Weekly Leadership Seminars
Join 30 motivated students from across disciplines and build meaningful connections with peers who share your leadership ambitions.
- Leadership identity and strengths
- Business strategy and operations
- Finance and revenue fundamentals
- Ethical decision-making
- Leading teams and resolving conflict
- Change leadership
- Executive storytelling and influence
Strengths-Based Leadership
Complete the CliftonStrengths assessment and work with a strengths coach to learn how to apply your unique talents to leadership situations.
Career Coaching
Receive personalized guidance on career readiness, resume and LinkedIn development, personal branding, and networking strategies.
Executive and Community Engagement
Engage with experienced leaders through executive panels, guest speakers, and networking opportunities with professionals across industries.
Leadership Strategy Capstone
Develop an Individual Leadership Strategy, connecting your values, strengths, and career goals. The program concludes with a capstone showcase where you’ll present your leadership strategy to campus and community leaders.
Who Should Apply?
If you are motivated to grow as a leader and make a positive impact in your career and community, you should apply to join for Fall 2026.
We welcome students from all majors and disciplines who are ready to challenge themselves, build their skills, and take the next step in their leadership development.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a University of Nebraska–Lincoln student
- Be an undergraduate entering sophomore year or above
- Have a minimum 3.0 GPA and be in good academic standing
- Demonstrate leadership potential and interest in business and leadership development
- Commit to participating fully in JMLA if selected, including attending the orientation on Thursday, August 20 at 4:00-9:00 PM and weekly seminars on Wednesdays at 3:00-3:50 PM during the Fall 2026 semester
Apply to the JoAnn Martin Leadership Academy
Applications are now open for Fall 2026. Only 30 students will be selected to participate.
Application Deadline: April 24 at 11:59 PM
Participants Selected: Late Spring/Early Summer 2026
Program Orientation: Thursday, August 20 at 4:00-9:00 PM
Weekly Seminars: Every Wednesday at 3:00-3:50 PM during the Fall 2026 semester
Start Your Application
The Legacy of JoAnn Martin
The JoAnn Martin Leadership Academy honors the legacy of JoAnn Martin, a respected leader and mentor whose commitment to professional excellence and leadership development has inspired countless individuals. Throughout her career, JoAnn was known for investing in the growth of others, helping emerging professionals recognize their potential and pursue leadership opportunities. Her belief that leadership can be developed through intentional learning, mentorship, and experience serves as the foundation of this academy. The program continues her legacy by preparing students to lead with integrity, courage, and purpose.
Questions?
For more information about the JoAnn Martin Leadership Academy, please contact:
Rachel Larson
University Career Services
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Rachel.Larson@unl.edu | 402-472-7328