The new program gives graduate students hands-on leadership training, networking opportunities and professional development experience beyond the classroom.

Tatiana Favela, New Mexico State University

LAS CRUCES - New Mexico State University celebrated the achievements of its first Leadership Empowerment & Academic Development, or LEAD, cohort during a graduation ceremony held April 30, marking the culmination of a semester-long professional development series for graduate students.

The event recognized participants’ growth in leadership, communication and professional skills, while highlighting their impact within the graduate community.

Launched this spring by NMSU’s Student Involvement and Leadership Programs in partnership with the Graduate Wellness Initiative, LEAD is designed to support graduate students as confident, effective and well-rounded leaders in academic and professional settings. The program included workshops on communication, conflict resolution, delegation, innovation and professional presence, along with opportunities to network with campus and community leaders.

“The LEAD program provides graduate students with opportunities to hone their leadership skills and gain practical knowledge from leaders within NMSU and the Las Cruces community,” said Ranjit Koodali, dean of the NMSU Graduate School. He added that the long-term goal is for participants to earn a micro-credential demonstrating leadership proficiency.

Throughout the semester, participants engaged in hands-on learning and applied leadership concepts in real-world contexts. Organizers said the curriculum was shaped by student feedback and designed to address common challenges graduate students face.

For many students, the experience offered both personal and professional growth.

Muhammad Atyab Azhar, a doctoral student in civil engineering, said the program introduced him to new ways of understanding leadership styles and working with others, including learning about DISC styles and engaging with guest speakers from the university and local community. “I learned about different DISC styles and how to better understand colleagues,” he said. “It also helped improve my basic abilities, and I recommend everyone to join the LEAD program.”

The program also reflects a broader effort to ensure graduate students are fully integrated into the university’s leadership and engagement opportunities.

“Graduate students are an essential part of the NMSU community, and it is important that they feel fully included in the broader student leadership and engagement experience,” said Ann Goodman, dean of students. “Programs like LEAD ensure they have meaningful opportunities to connect, grow as leaders and contribute to the life of the university. Their perspectives, experiences and leadership strengthen our campus in powerful ways, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements alongside the entire Aggie community.”

Program organizers will continue evaluating the LEAD series through participant feedback and engagement data, with plans to refine and expand the program in future semesters.

For more information about LEAD, or future graduate leadership opportunities, contact the Graduate Wellness Initiative at gwi@nmsu.edu or Student Involvement and Leadership Programs at silp@nmsu.edu. 

Tatiana Favela writes for New Mexico State University Marketing and Communications and can be reached at 575-646-7953, or by email at tfavela5@nmsu.edu.