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About the Sapphire Leadership Academic Program
The Sapphire Leadership Academic Program at the Smeal College of Business is a selective, four-year experience for motivated students who want to pair strong business fundamentals with practical leadership and professional development.
Sapphire is designed for students who want to understand themselves, build real skills, take on responsibility, and contribute meaningfully—on campus, in their communities, and in their future careers. Through a structured academic pathway, applied leadership experiences, professional development, and a close-knit cohort model, Sapphire helps students grow with intention from their first year through graduation.
The Sapphire Four-Year Roadmap
Focus: Understanding yourself and your role in a professional community
Students begin by developing self-awareness and foundational leadership skills. The first year emphasizes reflection, exploration, and connection.
Students will:
Identify personal strengths, values, and leadership styles
Clifton Strengths Evaluation and Session
Learn foundational leadership concepts through coursework
MGMT 301 - Basic Management Concepts
Build professional habits and expectations
First-Year Fundamentals
Participate in structured community service experiences
Begin forming relationships with peers, advisers, and mentors
Sapphire Mentorship Program
Focus: Applying skills through involvement and responsibility
In the second year, students move from exploration to action. Coursework and experiences emphasize skill-building, collaboration, and professional engagement.
Students will:
Practice leadership skills in student organizations and projects
Strengthen communication, teamwork, and decision-making abilities
BA 342 - Socially Responsible, Sustainable, and Ethical Business Practice
Continue meaningful community engagement
BA 297 – Issues in Business and Leadership
Deepen connections within the Sapphire cohort and alumni network
Focus: Leading teams and real initiatives
Advanced leadership course in organizational change
MGMT 355 - Leadership and Change in Organizations
Leadership reflection, adaptability, and goal refinement
Mentor younger Sapphires and represent the program
Focus: Apply learning and support others
Senior-level capstone course
Professional development focused on career launch
Guide others through mentorship and leadership
Strengthen legacy within the Sapphire community
Sapphire Ambassador Program
Advising and Support
Each Sapphire student works closely with a dedicated academic adviser who supports progress through the program and helps students align their academic, leadership, and professional goals. Advising is proactive and individualized, ensuring students stay on track and make intentional choices throughout their four years.
Professional Development and Connections
Sapphire connects students with business leaders, alumni, and professionals through workshops, speaker events, and networking opportunities. These experiences provide insight into real career paths and help students build confidence engaging in professional environments.
A Cohort-Based Community
Sapphire students learn and grow together as part of a supportive cohort. Shared courses, leadership experiences, and community engagement foster strong relationships and a sense of belonging within the Smeal College of Business.
Why Sapphire?
Sapphire is not about abstract leadership ideals. It is about developing skills, taking responsibility, and growing with purpose.
Students graduate from Sapphire with:
A clear understanding of their strengths and leadership approach
Practical experience leading people and projects
Strong professional and peer networks
Confidence to contribute meaningfully to their careers and communities
Interested in Sapphire?
High school students interested in applying to the Sapphire Leadership Academic Program can only do so provided they have been offered admission into the Smeal College of Business at University Park. Students should sign into the Sapphire application with their MyPennState account credentials.
Sapphire Visitation Days
You will have different opportunities to meet with Sapphire students, faculty, and staff to learn more about the program.
The event schedule is posted in late fall.
If you have any questions, please call the Smeal Undergraduate Education Office at 814-863-3232 or email at sapphire@smeal.psu.edu.