President’s Emerging Leaders Program (PELP)

Program Overview

Students who are admitted into the President’s Emerging Leaders Program (PELP) have, by the time of their application to Austin Peay State University, already demonstrated significant achievements as leaders and scholars.  Once they arrive on campus, PELP students continue to develop their leadership skills in a rigorous academic environment.

PELP students prepare for leadership roles related to their academic interests and career aspirations through a combination of leadership courses, community and service learning projects, mentoring experiences, academic presentations, and other activities.  PELP students receive a yearly scholarship of $3,000 that is renewable over a four-year period provided that specific program requirements are met.

The President’s Emerging Leaders Program is housed in the Honors Commons Building, a space it shares with Austin Peay’s Honors Program.  The PELP director’s office is located there in Room 102F.

Eligibility Requirements

High-school students are accepted into the program based on the following qualifications:

1. Minimum high school GPA of 3.50;
2. Minimum ACT of 26;
3. Evidence of participation in high-school and community activities;
4. Evidence of leadership and service throughout the high-school experience; and,
5. Two references, including at least one from a high-school official (principal, counselor, teacher, etc.).