Sullivan Leaders' Day is an opportunity to connect with peers interested in making a difference and discussing the complex social issues our communities face. Approximately 300 prospective students come from all over the country attend, and in the process get a closer look at the dynamic academic programs offered at Seattle University.
On Sullivan Leaders' Day, all participants will be asked to write a prompted essay in response to the articles selected for the year's theme. They will also meet with current Sullivan Scholars and other SU students, attend a panel presentation on the year's theme, and participate in small group discussions. Students participating in the Sullivan Leaders' Day event should plan to be on campus from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Students that have been invited to attend Leaders' Day should see an invitation link at the top of their portal.
The following information is provided for Sullivan Leaders' Day participants who previously applied by November 30, 2022. To RSVP, please log into your Applicant Status Portal.
Students attending Leaders' Day should plan to check in at the Student Center Hearth area (Student Center, 1st Floor) between 8:15 and 8:45 AM on Saturday, January 21. The day will conclude at 11 AM. A copy of the schedule for students can be found here: 2023 Leaders' Day - Student Program. Want to know more about what to expect? Watch the video at the bottom of the page or click here to watch on YouTube: Sullivan Leaders' Day 2023: What to Expect
Family members are invited to attend the Family Leaders' Day Program (attendance is not mandatory). Check-in will begin in the Student Center at 8:15 AM, and the day will include a greeting from Seattle University's president, an overview of the Sullivan Leadership Program, and presentations from important academic and student development offices on campus. The Family Program runs until 4 PM, though family members/supporters are welcome to attend any or all sessions they please. A copy of the schedule for parents can be found here: 2023 Leaders' Day Family Day Schedule
On Leaders' Day, we want students to feel their confident best while also being able to walk easily and sit comfortably. We recommend "smart casual" dress. A wide range of apparel is welcome, including button-up shirts, blouses, sweaters, collared shirts, jeans, slacks, comfortable dresses, or skirts. Comfortable shoes and a jacket with a hood and/or umbrella are important, as Leaders' Day involves a good deal of walking in some potential Seattle showers. We'd recommend avoiding casual t-shirts, clothing with rips or tears, sweats, and workout attire.
Participants in Sullivan Leaders' Day will be asked to write responses to prompts given at the start of the essay writing. The prompts for the Leaders' Day writing portion of the day will be based on the podcast and the two required articles. Any additional reading or research will give you valuable depth for writing your responses and for discussions throughout the day. Come prepared to write from your own perspective and also show that you have considered other perspectives.
The essay prompt and links to the required articles will be provided prior to the writing session. Please bring a laptop or tablet to use during the essay portion of the day. Computer labs will be open for students unable to bring their own device. Please email Colleen Fettig at fettigc@seattleu.edu if you will need to use a computer in the computer lab.
Please read the following articles and listen to the podcast in preparation for the essay and discussion on Sullivan Leaders' Day:
"The Morally Troubling 'Dirty Work" We Pay Others to Do In Our Place" By Tamsin Shaw (nytimes.com)
"Life in the Shadows" By Nancy Isenberg (theamericanscholar.org)
"This Book Introduces You to the People Doing Your 'Dirty Work'" podcast By Dave Davies (npr.com)
Parking will be complimentary for Leaders' Day attendees and is available in the Murphy Garage (marked P4 on the attached campus map) and Broadway Parking Garage (marked P3 on the campus map).
To reserve complimentary parking, please follow the instructions in the email with the subject line "Sullivan Leaders' Day - Final Details." Driving directions can be found on our website, or you may use this link for door-to-door directions. If you're planning to take a car share or taxi, the most convenient drop-off location is 901 12th Avenue, the university's main entrance.
If you have any questions or need to update or cancel your registration, email sullivanleadershipaward@seattleu.edu or call 206-220-8040.
Need to get in touch with the Admissions Office on the day of the event? Text us at 206-589-1891.