Lead. Connect. Make an Impact.
The SMCM Navigator Leadership Program is a semester-long, non-credit leadership development experience designed to help students strengthen their leadership skills, build meaningful professional connections, and make a difference in their communities.
Hosted by the Office of Career Development and Community Engagement in partnership with Leadership Southern Maryland and Leslie Taylor Consulting Services, Navigator brings students together with regional leaders and mentors through interactive workshops, professional networking, and hands-on leadership experiences.
What You'll Gain
Through Navigator, students have the opportunity to:
- Develop practical leadership and professional skills
- Connect with a professional mentor and regional leaders
- Apply their skills through a Capstone Service Experience that addresses a campus or community need
- Build valuable experiences to highlight on their résumé and in future job or internship searches
- Earn a Navigator Leadership Program certificate upon successful completion
Navigator in Action
See how students from our inaugural Navigator cohort put their leadership skills into practice through a Capstone Service Experience supporting the St. Mary's County YMCA.
Spring 2027 Cohort
Applications are now open!
Navigator is open to SMCM students of all class years.
Program Details
- Seven bi-weekly sessions, January 26 – April 20, 2027
- Tuesdays, 3:30–5:30 p.m.
- Blackistone Room
- Additional mentoring, networking, and Capstone Service Experience opportunities
- Certificate Ceremony: April 27, 2027
Application Deadline: Friday, November 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
Questions?
Contact Kristen Pennington, Director of Career Development, at knpennington@smcm.edu
