March 17-19, 2026
Patricia A. Whitely's Leadership Symposium (WLS) is an annual gathering that brings the University of Miami community together to celebrate and empower UM student leaders to create positive social change through leadership development, community building, and wellness activities.
Our 2026 theme, Layers of Leadership, symbolizes the unique and multifaceted parts of ourselves that come together to shape the leaders we are. Throughout the Symposium Week (March 17-19, 2026), participants will engage in dynamic workshops focused on professional development, personal growth, and mental wellness, all designed to encourage reflection on the many dimensions of leadership.
Read more about our three-day event schedule below:
Tuesday, March 17: Student Leader Resource Fair
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Rock Plaza, learn more about on and off campus organizations, departments, and partners, offering resources to students, enhancing their leadership development.
Wednesday, March 18: Workshops
From 1 to 4:30 p.m. in Hecht Great Hall located in Centennial Village, participate in three unique workshop sessions.
- 1-2 p.m. Light Your Intentions: Candle Making for Mental Wellness, a creative and reflective candle-making workshop designed to nurture your mental health and personal growth.
- 2-3:30 p.m. Eclectic Collections: Gather the Best Parts of You, discover the art of self-expression through a guided creative workshop with experts from the Lowe Art Museum.
- 3:30-4:30 p.m. Every Hat, One You: Thriving Through Intentional Self-Leadership, learn how to manage competing priorities, set boundaries, and embrace intentional self-leadership with Dr. Renee Dickens Callan, Assistant Vice President of Student Life.
Thursday, March 19: Keynote Speaker and Networking
From 4 to 6 p.m. in the Shalala Student Center Grand Ballroom, hear from our expert Keynote Speaker, sharing wisdom and inspiring leadership, followed up a networking session with community professionals across industries.
Interested in attending any of the events mentioned above? Register for events by clicking here to let us know you’re coming!
Have questions? Please reach out to the Butler Center for Service & Leadership via email at leadandserve@miami.edu or visit our office Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Shalala Student Center building, Suite 204.
