Jepson School of Leadership Studies

The Leader in Leadership

As the nation’s first-ever undergraduate school of leadership studies, the Jepson School takes "leading the way" very seriously.

That’s why we educate tomorrow’s leaders with a world-class program, preparing them for positions that drive real change in their communities and the world.

Through a rigorous curriculum, opportunities for outside experience, and support that extends far beyond their time at Jepson, our students find here a leadership journey unlike any other.

Recently named the "Jewel in the Crown" of the University of Richmond’s academics by College Gazette, the Jepson School of Leadership Studies investigates leadership not only as a position, but also as a process and a relationship among people.

masculinity

The Jepson Leadership Forum

The 2023-24 Jepson Leadership Forum presents Masculinity in a Changing World. The last few decades have seen rapid changes in gender relations and norms—in the household, in the workforce, and in government. We’ve invited speakers to discuss masculinity in the context of these recent cultural changes. 

Specific topics include the role of hormones in gender identity and behavior, status competition and violence, challenges facing men as a result of the changing nature of the family and the economy, Black masculinity in the United States, and the past and future of patriarchy globally.

Professor Julian Hayter smiling toward the camera as he is being interviewed by and sitting across from Anderson Cooper. There are television cameras and lights around them.

A Faculty of Experts

Jepson faculty help students hone their leadership skills. They also hold prominent places in national and international media, providing insightful opinions and expert views on leadership and issues of the day.

Want to learn more about the Jepson School of Leadership Studies?

Kate Rezabek, '02, and Joseph Greener, '13, speaking at the 2023 Jepson EDGE Institute

Alumni Who Lead

Graduates leave Richmond with knowledge of leadership frameworks and with the critical thinking and communication skills that enable them to excel in their chosen careers.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Jepson 

Scholars & Practitioners

Dr. Julian Maxwell Hayter
Hayter Published

Julian Hayter, associate professor of leadership studies, published "Edward Blum's crusade against affirmative action has used the legal strategy developed by civil rights activists" in The Conversation US. 

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Dr. Sandra J. Peart
Peart Published

Sandra J. Peart, dean of the Jepson School of Leadership Studies, co-published "Harriet Martineau: Economist as Storyteller and Traveler" in The Independent Review: A Journal of Political Economy

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Dr. David E. Wilkins
Wilkins Gave Keynote

David Wilkins, professor of leadership studies, gave the keynote address, "Savage Justice: The Foundational Myths That Legitimized Federal Indian Law," at the annual meeting of the Organization of Educational Historians, Sept. 29-30, 2023.  

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Dr. Kerstin M. Soderlund
Soderlund Awarded

Kerstin Soderlund, Jepson School Associate Dean for Student and External Affairs, received the 2023 Contribution to the Institution Award from the Bonner Center for Civic Engagement. 

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