Excelling Leaders Institute

History

Originally introduced to the University of Denver campus in the summer of 2006 by the The Cultural Center and Academic Advising, ELI began with a cohort of 17 students and has rapidly grown into a network of more than 150 student leaders on campus. ELI is designed to support incoming first-year students make the transition from high school to college.

Mission & Values

Mission

The Excelling Leaders Institute (ELI) seeks to create an open and inclusive campus environment where students from various backgrounds can come together to develop the skills of inclusive, self-aware leaders. ELI is a leadership development program that offers a close-knit community, encourages open dialogue, and equips students with the tools to be effective leaders of various student organizations at The University of Denver and in personal and professional pursuits post-graduation.

Values

ELI is committed to providing quality support to a diverse group of learners. Our core values are:

• Inclusion- We appreciate diversity and practice including all

• Respect- We value others and regard them with consideration

• Continuous Improvement- We embrace new knowledge and recognize that learning is endless

• Integrity- We adhere to University of Denver policies and procedures and are committed to honesty, fairness, professionalism, and trustworthiness

• Teamwork- We understand that every member of our team brings a unique perspective that is necessary in our program's success

Incoming ELI Students

You’ve Been Accepted, Now What?

The program consists of a one-week pre-orientation in the areas of academic preparation, leadership development, social identity development, campus networking, and many other key components to ensure overall student success.  This includes the ability to move into the residence halls early.
 

Throughout your undergraduate journey at DU, ELI will provide programs that address academic success, professional growth, social engagement, and leadership development to challenge them as individuals and equip them to be active change agents. During the pre-collegiate experience, your scholar cohort will engage in a series of workshops, trainings,
and activities aimed at both academic preparation and academic acculturation as you begin your career at DU.

ELI will continue throughout your academic career providing ways for you to enhance learning opportunities andprofessional development. ELI Peer Mentors, who are 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year students, currently in the leadership positions, on and off The University of Denver’s campus, will also provide guidance and answer questions for you throughout your journey.

• How do I accept my spot in ELI?

  In order to claim your spot in the ELI program, you must confirm using the link provided in your acceptance email. If you were notified of an acceptance, and did not receive an email please contact latisha.clerkley@du.edu as soon as
  possible.

• When will pre-orientation take place?

  For the 2022-23 academic year, pre-orientation will take place between August 31st and September 4th. Accepted students will be expected to move into their assigned rooms in Dimond Family Residential Village on August 31st.

• What do I need to bring when attending pre-orientation?

  When attending pre-orientation accepted students should plan to bring all of their dormitory supplies for the remainder of the academic year. There will not be allotted time between pre -orientation and the university orientation to travel home and pack additional items. Please refer to the housing website for details on suggested packing list.

• Do I still need to attend the university wide orientation?

  Yes! Pre-orientation is a way for ELI students to build community before the university orientation. All ELI students are highly encouraged to attend the university orientation in addition to the pre -orientation held by ELI.