Leadership Development at Bowdoin is a new Student Affairs initiative that aims to educate and empower students to lead with purpose, compassion, courage, and for the Common Good.

Our Philosophy

At Bowdoin, we believe that all students are capable of becoming great leaders. We aim to support students in their leadership journey through experiences that help them discover their potential and prepare them to lead with confidence at Bowdoin and beyond.

"To Be a Polar Bear is to be a Leader."


Our Principles

Leadership is:

bowdoin primary spirit mark
  1. A Practical Skill
    Developed through intentional practice, experience, and over time.

  2. Rooted in Character
    Guided by your integrity and values.

  3. Defined by Action
    A behavior, not a position of authority, that can be exercised at any time.

  4. Relationship-Based
    Emerges any time two or more people come together.

  5. Inclusive
    Is for everyone; thrives when engaging diverse perspectives and ideas.