About Us

Leadership the NCSL Way

The National Conference on Student Leadership (NCSL) brings together collegiate students and campus professionals to learn effective, leadership skills directly from cutting-edge innovators in industry, education, and the nonprofit sector.

The conference will prepare you to lead as an individual, as a member of a team (such as student government, clubs, and committees), and in engagement with your community and the wider world.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to create a place for college students to enhance their leadership skills to make a difference on campus, in the local community, and beyond.

We do this by bringing together student and professional campus leaders and connecting them with ‘best of the best’ leadership educators who offer training sessions based on tested principles in an intentionally designed program.

NCSL started in 1978 and thrives today because we provide a nurturing place for a personal examination of values, goals, and dreams with like-minded leaders. Our students are eager to avail themselves of a unique opportunity to jumpstart personal and professional growth that will continue long after the conference ends.

Our program is rooted in current research and models of leadership, pathways to career development, connections with leaders from around the world, and learning from practitioners who specialize in topic areas of personal growth, team management, professional success, civic engagement, and social justice.

Our Values

  • Leadership is a skill that can be learned
  • Excellence in programming
  • Adaptability to changing needs in our student leaders and in society
  • Dedication to providing a unique experience
  • Embracing the leadership virtues of courage, work, perseverance, humility, honesty, integrity, and justice to guide personal actions