GEM for Students

A one-of-a-kind partnership between Georgia College & Sate University and the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the GEM Program prepares the next generation of Georgia's leaders for the public good. A mentorship and leadership program, GEM matches students with senior state leaders for a yearlong partnership that creates mutual benefit between Georgia College and its partners.

Why the GEM Program?

• Mentorship from one of Georgia's top leaders
• Signature retreats, conferences, and travel opportunities 
• Networking with nationally recognized leaders, executives, and elected officials 
• Customized one-on-one leadership coaching
• Holistic approach to leadership development 
• One of Georgia's most respected leadership programs with a proven record of impact

GEM Program: A Summary

Begin Your Application

Through GEM, students learn the skills they need to fill the ranks of Georgia's next generation of leaders. 

BUILDING NETWORKS 

Leading others depends on our ability to build relationships and to bring people together. Through GEM, you'll become part of a network you can rely on as you lead for the public good. 

ADVOCACY, POLICY, AND THOUGHT LEADERSHIP 

Georgia's global competitiveness relies on effective policy and thought leadership and the community, state, and national levels. In partnership with the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, you will learn and practice the skills to propel Georgia into the 21st century. 

BRINGING TOGETHER THE PUBLIC, PRIVATE, AND NONPROFIT SECTORS 

To confront the challenges of tomorrow, our leaders must be social entrepreneurs, able to forge connections between government, private business, and nonprofits. Through GEM, you will build relationships that transcend boundaries, bringing people together for the public good. 

MANAGING STAKEHOLDERS 

Building relationships is only the start. You'll learn how to nourish and sustain those relationships; you'll work with others to achieve your goals and inspire a shared vision. 

LEADERSHIP IN GEORGIA 

You’ll encounter leadership up close, working closely with business leaders, elected officials, nonprofit executives. In partnership with your mentor, you'll learn the nuts and bolts of leadership in Georgia and how to effect positive change across our state. 

ETHICS IN LEADERSHIP 

Good leadership requires honesty, integrity, and authenticity. Through GEM, you will practice the ethical reasoning required of leaders and explore with your mentor how leaders do what they know to be right, even in the face of challenge. 

INFLUENCING AND SHAPING PUBLIC DISCOURSE 

Leadership requires us to speak out powerfully and passionately. With the support of your mentor, your colleagues, and your professors, you will identify what change you hope to make in the world and scout a path toward achieving your goals.