Vision
Establish a nationally recognized institution for leadership and public policy education, building on the Capstone’s storied history of educating effective civic leaders and policymakers who are shaping the state of Alabama and beyond.
Mission
Provide interdisciplinary, practice-oriented education that prepares students to become effective leaders, policymakers and public servants who will contribute to Alabama’s social, economic and civic well-being.
Priorities
Educational Excellence
Develop curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical policy application.
Leadership Development
Equip students with the skills, knowledge and ethical grounding necessary for leadership roles in public service.
Service and Impact
Establish strong partnerships with local, state and federal agencies to promote civic engagement and public service.
Economic Development
Contribute to the state’s economic growth by training leaders to address challenges facing Alabama, the southeast region and the nation.
Degree Programs
Leadership Degree
Undergraduate and Graduate
Public Policy Degree
Undergraduate and Graduate
Curriculum
The interdisciplinary curriculum of the School of Leadership and Policy will equip students with the knowledge and skills to participate effectively in civic life and government, with a strong understanding of the foundational principles that shape American institutions, laws and public discourse. Students will be exposed to multiple viewpoints and engage directly with public institutions, nonprofit organizations and private sector partners through internships, policy labs and community-based projects — ensuring they graduate with the skills and insight needed to address complex challenges with tangible solutions.
Through this dynamic blend of evidence-based education and real-world experiential training, the School will cultivate a pipeline of leaders and public servants and prepare them to lead with innovation and impact at the state and national levels.
Curriculum
The interdisciplinary curriculum of the School of Leadership and Policy will equip students with the knowledge and skills to participate effectively in civic life and government, with a strong understanding of the foundational principles that shape American institutions, laws and public discourse. Students will be exposed to multiple viewpoints and engage directly with public institutions, nonprofit organizations and private sector partners through internships, policy labs and community-based projects — ensuring they graduate with the skills and insight needed to address complex challenges with tangible solutions.
Through this dynamic blend of evidence-based education and real-world experiential training, the School will cultivate a pipeline of leaders and public servants and prepare them to lead with innovation and impact at the state and national levels.
Timeline
November 2025
Present to Board of Trustees; Pursue Approvals; Launch Dean Search
Spring-Summer 2026
Obtain Approvals for School; Establish Organization Structure
Fall 2026-Spring 2027
Obtain Degree Approvals; Recruit First Cohort
Fall 2027
Classes Begin
Timeline
November 2025
Present to Board of Trustees; Launch Dean Search
Spring-Summer 2026
Obtain Approvals for School; Establish Organization Structure
Fall 2026-Spring 2027
Obtain Degree Approvals; Recruit First Cohort
Fall 2027
Classes Begin
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