Build connections for your career in public service
Next Generation Leadership Corps
The Next Generation Leadership Corps is a program for Syracuse University students focused on public sector problem-solving and cross-sector collaboration. The program offers rich opportunities for participants to get to know one another and develop personal and professional connections across geographic lines.
Through coursework, experiential learning and professional network building, this program allows students to strengthen their commitment to community engagement and public service.
The NextGen program is open to students in any school or college. Applications are reviewed twice a year, in November for spring induction and in April for fall induction.
What is SU-NextGen?
- This opportunity is a leadership development program for students interested in building skills for a career in public service.
Part of a growing network of similar programs across the country powered by the Volcker Alliance Next Generation Service Corps, Syracuse University's program brings together cohorts of students to wrestle with the potent threats facing our democracy and work together to develop possible solutions.
Who is eligible to apply?
- Syracuse University students from any major, who are committed to public service and willing to engage consistently with the program.
Who is the ideal student?
- You want to serve as a catalyst for change in your community and nation.
- You want to help solve some of society’s big challenges.
- You are interested in a career in public/government or nonprofit service.
- You want to become a leader.
NextGen participants will discuss complex social issues, their historical roots and ways they can be addressed in the present and future.
NextGen Connect, the portal available only to participating students, opens doors to job opportunities, internships and events that deepen students’ knowledge and skillsets and help forge durable professional connections.
What are the benefits?
- Learn about public service values and practice community engagement.
- Build practical, collaborative leadership skills and professional development in government, non-profit and joint-venture organizations.
- Be part of a cohort of Syracuse University students—and future alumni—engaged in academic and service-learning leadership activities to serve our local communities.
- Collaborate with fellow students on experiential-learning projects.
- Network with students and alumni from 25 NextGen Service Corps programs across the United States.
- Earn a digital badge and regalia for graduation.
Signature events allow NextGen Leadership Corps members to build their networks, engage with new ideas and consider how others approach pressing social issues and cultural conversations.
Events include community engagement, network building and social/cultural events. Many signature events are only open to NextGen Leadership Corps members and offer direct connections with notable community leaders, public policy practitioners and elected officials.
I attended the Next Generation Summit hosted at Montclair University and it was an incredible experience! The speakers were inspiring and the workshops were informative. My biggest take away was when we had the opportunity to volunteer at different sites in New Jersey. I left feeling motivated and empowered to make a difference in my community. I highly recommend attending if you have the opportunity!"
Sarhia Rahim '25 B.A. (PST)