LEAD (Leadership, Empowerment and Academic Development) is a first-year program built for driven, innovative students, like yourself, who are ready to launch into their academic and professional journey.

This unique year-long program is designed for first-year incoming Eller students, especially if you are first-generation or have had limited exposure to higher education and business careers; LEAD provides high-impact support to help you thrive in college and in your career. We know academics are just one part of the story, your ambition, resilience and mindset are what truly set you apart. For additional information, please email our advisor Veronica Atondo at vatondo@arizona.edu.

• Who Should Join LEAD
• Membership Requirements
• LEAD Advisor
• LCMC
• Apply for LEAD 

Who Should Join LEAD

The Eller Diversity Leadership Council is seeking involved and driven students who would benefit from academic and professional support. This could look like students pursuing community, first-generation students seeking mentorship, and students hoping to get connected to the Eller Experience.

Benefits for our members:

• Mentorship from experienced Eller students
• Professional development with corporate speakers, faculty, workshops, and more
• Additional academic support through partnership with THINK TANK

Membership Requirements:

• Be an incoming foundational Business Management or Economics student
• $50 Experience fee
• Attend weekly meetings on Mondays from 5 - 6 p.m.
• Attend weekly study halls on Thursdays from 4 - 6 p.m. (only need to be there one hour)
• Participation in academic development opportunities

LEAD is more than a program - it's a launchpad into your #EllerExperience. If you are ready to invest in your future, embrace new opportunities, and lead with confidence, we're here to help you get there!

Applications Closed for the 2025 - 2026 School Year

Advisor

• Veronica Atondo, Assistant Director, Undergraduate Engagement, vatondo@arizona.edu

LEAD Community Mentorship Council 

The LEAD Community Mentorship Council (LCMC) plays a key role in shaping the direction and impact of the Leadership, Empowerment, and Academic Development Program. Each participant in the program is paired with a mentor from LCMC, student leaders who bring first-hand experience and a deep commitment to supporting others through their foundational journey. LCMC mentors lead team activities, offer professional development, and provide practical advice to help students grow both academically and personally. As a leadership body, LCMC serves as a valuable resource for Eller students, helping them build meaningful connections, navigate the Eller experience, and prepare for future success in upper-division coursework and their careers. 

The LEAD Community Mentorship Council  is seeking involved and driven students who would benefit from academic and professional support. This could look like students pursuing community, first-generation students seeking mentorship, and students hoping to get connected to the Eller Experience.

LEAD Community Mentorship Council Members

Seniors

• Isabela Azurdia, Management Information Systems '26
• Dominick Smith, Accounting '26
• Chris Williams, Business Management '26

Junior

• Connor Romero, Business Management '27

Sophomores

• Antonio Bianchi, Business Managment intended Accounting '28
• Leah Callahan, Business Management intended Accounting '28
• Natalie Encinas, Business Management intended Accounting '28
• Sebastian Garcia-Ontiveros, Business Management intended Marketing '28
• Criscia Valdez, Business Management intended Finance '28