The Leading Edge Program

"I loved going out in the wilderness and being able to apply all of the leadership skills that I learned." Leading Edge '08 alumnus, Boulder, CO

We know: Adults talk to high school students about leadership all the time. If you want to impact student council, captain a sports team, lead a club, or are just interested in learning what all the leadership fuss is about, read on....

The Leading Edge is a leadership development and wilderness adventure program designed for teenagers with great leadership potential. We strive to empower teenagers who have a genuine interest in learning how to become more effective leaders. The Leading Edge prepares graduates to excel in their final years of high school and to assume leadership roles in college. We teach leadership through experience while fostering an educational and fun environment.

Leading Edge groups bring together up to twelve teenagers from around the country and three instructors who are versed in both wilderness and leadership disciplines. The program begins with a two-day leadership workshop on campus, followed by an extended backpacking expedition through the rugged Rocky Mountains of Colorado or the spectacular canyons of Utah. While in the backcountry, the wilderness becomes our classroom to explore and practice leadership theory.

The High Mountain Institute offers age-appropriate Leading Edge courses for students in 9th-12th grades.

"TLE was one of the "aha!" moments of my life. I learned so much about leadership and myself and the way I want to live my life. Thank you, HMI, for opening my eyes and reminding me that I have the power to transform myself - and perhaps, one day, the world." Leading Edge '08 alumna