About the Leading Edge Program

Once students arrive in Denver and travel to HMI, the Leading Edge begins with an introduction to leadership concepts, an initial exploration of students own leadership preferences, and preparation for our extended wilderness backpacking expedition. Next, it’s off to the mountains. HMI is located at the base of Colorado’s two highest 14,000-foot peaks, and we live and travel in the wilderness that is our back yard. We travel both on and off trail, practicing navigation, and also climb a 14,000-foot peak. We return to campus for a final celebration and culminating exercise in which students consider what they have learned about leadership, and how they will apply these learnings at home.

Whether learning how to read a map, climbing a peak, or being in charge of your own hiking group, living and traveling in the mountains provides concrete opportunities to practice and learn about being a leader.

During the program, we engage in several days of work with leadership development specialists. Staff members provide one-on-one coaching and also facilitate group learning exercises. Using wilderness and classroom environments, the program provides each student with a foundation for building leadership skills and with a fantastic summer adventure in the mountains!

The Leading Edge includes

• An extended backcountry expedition among Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks. Learn map reading and navigation skills, bake backcountry pizza, and practice being a leader on and off trail.
• A peak ascent.
• Leadership workshops
• An individualized leadership program, developed through ongoing assessment and evaluation.
• Opportunities to make friends and learn skills that will last a lifetime.

The Leading Edge teaches

• Self-awareness through instruments such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, group exercises, and reflection.
• Influence through classes in feedback, communication, and conflict resolution.
• The development of an Ethical Compass through discussion and reflection about each student's own values and goals.

Want to know more? Download the Leading Edge Curriculum Overview (PDF)

2008 Leading Edge Dates & Prices

Session I (completed 10th-12th grade): June 22 -J uly 9, 2008; Tuition: $2,795*
Session II (completed 10th-12th grade): July 24 - August 8, 2008; Tuition: $2,495*
Explorer (completed 9th or 10th grade): July 13-July 28, 2008; Tuition: $2,495*

*$100 discount available if application is postmarked by March 15. Tuition includes all room and board, as well as transportation to and from Denver International Airport.

Financial Aid is also available. Questions about the program? Please contact Christina Reiff, Program Director: 719-486-8200×107, creiff@hminet.org