Save the Date for LEAP 2024
November 20, 2024
Host Site: DMACC, Ankeny

A FREE conference for underrepresented high school students in grades 10-12, L.E.A.P (Leading & Excelling Academically & Professionally) aims at empowering youth to understand the life-long rewards that come from leadership, good decision-making, and academic success. Join us for workshop sessions on leadership, academic success, how to find your next steps after high school, and a resource fair. 

Lunch is provided and travel stipends are available (first-come, first-serve) to help cover the transportation expense of bringing students to the conference. To be eligible, the minimum distance must be 75 miles to apply.

For more information, or to get involved with the Inclusion, Access, and Success Committee, please contact Inclusion, Access, and Success Chair Janine Baeza at [email protected].


Call for Proposals!

Submit your session proposal by Friday, September 13, 2024.

This event typically has around 80 high school students grades 10-12 from historically underrepresented populations in attendance. Please consider answering our call for session proposals.

Below is a list of suggested session topics, but this list is not exhaustive - we're open to new ideas!
  • Transitioning to college and life after high school
  • Time management and study habits
  • What to anticipate on scholarship applications, writing essays, requesting letters of recommendation
  • Student involvement/ leadership
  • Planning dual enrollment and college credits
  • Paying for college
  • How to work with college admissions offices - scheduling visits, important questions, timeline, etc.
  • Student wellness/ mental health - resources and routines
  • Resume building
  • Developing a sense of belonging as an underrepresented/ first generation college student
  • Accepting help and self-advocacy 
  • Student athlete experience