BLI Summer Leadership Institute

The BLI Summer Leadership Institute

A learning experience exclusively for prospective transfer students 

The Summer Leadership Institute (SLI) is an immersive five-day workshop designed for prospective transfer students who want to build community, explore their leadership potential, and connect early with opportunities at the University of Michigan.

Held on campus and led by professional staff and faculty from the Barger Leadership Institute, SLI invites students to reflect on the values, experiences, and strengths that shape their leadership. Through storytelling, team challenges, campus exploration, ethics discussions, and visioning exercises, students will develop practical tools for ethical, reflective, and effective leadership.

As part of a small cohort, students will receive intentional feedback, build meaningful relationships, and learn alongside other potential transfer students preparing to make the most of their Michigan experience. The five-day program culminates in a showcase of personal leadership philosophies and a closing ceremony with guest speakers from leadership programs across campus.

Cost: Food, lodging, and a $500 stipend provided by the BLI

Application or Additional Questions: Email Mary Schlitt, msergent@umich.edu

Eligibility: Eligible students from the Transfer Bridges Program (see list of participating community colleges); at this time, Early College students are not eligible.

Program Benefits:

• Access to specialized coursework
• Mentorship from BLI professional staff
• A LinkedIn badge
• More opportunities for campus engagement and funding 
• After transferring to the University of Michigan, completing SLI may also connect you to BLI grants, select student employment opportunities, and an accelerated pathway toward the Leadership Certificate Program