NextGen Leadership Academy at Rutgers SPAA

What is the NextGen Leadership Academy?

A brand new program launching Fall 2025, the NextGen Leadership Academy is an innovative program offered by the School of Public Affairs and Administration (SPAA) that aims to inspire RU-N undergraduate students from all majors to explore public service careers and equip the next generation of civic leaders with the skills they need to make an impact in their communities and beyond.

RU-N’s NextGen Leadership Academy is one of over 20 programs nationwide that form part of the Volcker Alliance’s Next Generation Service Corps, a ground-breaking initiative that draws diverse, talented young people into public service. The NextGen Service Corps benefits students nationwide by opening the door to new career pathways and overcoming long-standing informational and systemic barriers.

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Why Should You Join the Academy?

As the world becomes more complex and the challenges we face increasingly difficult to solve, now more than ever, we need talented civic leaders who are passionate about public service.

The NextGen Leadership Academy is for RU-N students who want to engage critically with the most important issues in society, those who are eager to make a difference, and those who want to lead by example.

By joining the Academy, you will have the chance to develop the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to become part of the next generation of public service leaders who will tackle these issues head-on. You will learn from experienced public service professionals, develop a cross-sector collaborative approach to problem solving, engage in hands-on training sessions, and work together with like-minded individuals who share an interest in making a positive impact on society.

So, if you’re passionate about making a difference in the world and want to be part of the solution, apply to join the NextGen Leadership Academy today!

Program Benefits

Academic Programs

As part of the program, participants will have the option to pursue either the Public Leadership Minor or the Public Leadership Certificate.

Co-Curricular Experiences

NextGen members will gain access to a variety of co-curricular experiences, including regular speaker events focused on public service, professional development workshops, and one-on-one mentoring support.

Cohort Experiences

Students will take part in cohort retreats and attend national NextGen Service Corps events where they will have the opportunity to network with fellow NextGen Service Corps members from across the nation.

Make An Impact

NextGen members will participate in a range of service projects, demonstrating their commitment to public service while also making a difference in their communities and beyond.

Leadership Opportunities

Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their potential as future leaders by taking on leadership roles within the Academy as it grows over time.

Eligibility

Students may apply to the NextGen Leadership Academy up until their final year of undergraduate studies. Students just must have at least one academic year left to complete the program’s two required courses (Cross-Sector Leadership offered in the fall semester and Community Impact Lab offered in the spring).

Entry to the NextGen Leadership Academy is open to all RU-N undergraduate students who meet the following criteria:

  • Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher (or a high school GPA of 2.5 or higher for incoming freshmen)*; and
  • Will be registered as an undergraduate student at the Newark campus for the forthcoming academic year.

Note: this includes incoming freshmen, transfer students, and existing RU-N students.

Students from ALL MAJORS are encouraged to apply.

*We also understand that there are many reasons why a student may not have a 2.5 GPA. We will still consider applications from candidates who do not meet this requirement but still demonstrate strong leadership potential. If you do not meet the eligibility criteria but are still interested in participating in the program, please reach out to the program director, Dr. Briana Huett, via email at briana.huett@rutgers.edu to discuss your situation.

Application Process & Deadlines

Applications for Fall 2025 entry are now open and will close September 7, 2025.

As part of the application process, applicants will be required to provide short responses (between 150-250 words) to the following prompts:

  • Why are you interested in joining the NextGen Leadership Academy, and what do you hope to gain from participating in the program?
  • Please describe any prior activities that you have been involved in that demonstrate your commitment to public service.
  • What social issue(s) are you most passionate about?

Applicants may also upload a copy of their resume, although this is not required.

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Questions?

If you have any questions about the NextGen Leadership Academy or the application process, please contact the program director, Dr. Briana Huett, via email at briana.huett@rutgers.edu.

FAQs