SMU Taos Leadership Institute

In the beautiful mountains of Northern New Mexico, take one 3-credit hour academic course in a cohort-based retreat focused on holistic leadership development. Students will build essential skills including team-building, critical thinking, and creativity & innovation.

What is the SMU Taos Leadership Institute?

The Leadership Institute at SMU Taos provides focused leadership training to SMU undergraduate students during a 2 week (15 day) retreat in mid July.  The Institute builds leaders through interdisciplinary collaboration, personal reflection, community team building, and intensive engagement with local and Dallas-based(national) leaders.  The outdoor remote aspects of the SMU Taos campus contribute to the “think tank” nature of the experience. 

The Taos Leadership Institute is not equivalent to study in other Taos terms.  The application process is competitive rather than first-come, first-served.  Students responsibilities go beyond class participation as co-curricular experiences (lectures, discussions, etc.) are woven throughout the schedule (see flip side), adding substance to evenings and weekends.  Student should expect to be challenged to grow as leaders. 

SMU Taos Leadership Institute 2026

In the beautiful mountains of Northern New Mexico, take one 3-credit hour academic course during an 11 day cohort-based retreat focused on holistic leadership development. Build your leadership skills through engaging community dialogues, a common reading, and reflective group activities.

2026 Theme: Personal Values & Ethics

In an ever-changing, dynamic world, it is crucial for leaders to reflect upon and develop their personal values and ethics. These core principles serve as the compass for your leadership and career journey.

Learn More

The SMU Taos Leadership Institute is an application based program at SMU Taos, not all applicants are guaranteed admission. Up to 75 participants are selected for each term, however the committee can decide to admit fewer depending on the applicant pool.

To apply please prepare a resume, letter of recommendation, and the answers to the application cycle's short answer questions (all 400 words or less). 

Learn more about the process and apply! 

Deadline to Apply: February 14th each year 

Application Decisions Released Mid-March each year 

 

2026 Dates: 

Arrival Day: July 12, 2026 

Departure Day: July 28, 2026

Students are expected to stay on campus the full duration of the SMU Taos Leadership Institute. There will be required activities in the evenings and weekends that will not allow for additional travel or early departures except in pre-approved extraordinary circumstances.

Students who participate in the SMU Taos Leadership Institute and complete all expectations will receive: 

  • Credit for a 3-credit academic course taken during the term
  • A transcript note reflecting the year in which they participated 
  • Networking opportunities with local Taos and Dallas leaders
  • Opportunity for future coaching and mentorship
  • Exclusive Co-hort specific Leadership Institute Merch
  • Qualification to apply for future institute student worker positions