Curriculum and Scholarships

Academic Year Structure

Application Phase
Applications open on October 1, 2026 and end on October 31, 2026

Kick-Off Meeting - November 18, 2026, 4:30–5:30 PM

Development Phase - January-February 2026

Wednesdays January 13, January 20, January 27, February 3, February 10, 2027 4:30–6:30 PM

The CARVE Lecture Series

The foundation of LDI is five one-hour sessions, each dedicated to one leadership competency. Each session blends direct instruction with hands-on experiential activities.

• Collaborative — Build trust and drive results through shared purpose and teamwork.
• Adaptable — Navigate change with flexibility, resilience, and a growth mindset.
• Reflective — Lead with self-awareness and learn continuously from every experience.
• Visionary — Think ahead, inspire others, and turn bold ideas into action.
• Ethical — Make principled decisions and lead with integrity in every situation.

Leadership Lab

As part of the sessions, cohort members engage in Leadership Lab simulations — structured, low-stakes exercises designed to apply each competency in real scenarios. Labs create a space to experiment, fail, reflect, and grow before the stakes are higher.

Case Study Phase

Case Study Launch: February 17, 2027, 4:30–5:30 PM
Case Study Presentations: March 24, 2027, 4:30–6:30 PM

This case study competition requires interdisciplinary teams of 4-5 students to tackle a real, industry-sourced challenge for four to six weeks, applying CARVE principles. Teams check-in weekly with administrators and faculty mentors. 

During case study presentations, teams present their strategies to a closed panel of judges, earning both feedback from working professionals and the experience of performing under genuine pressure. 

The Leadership Summit and Awards 

April 7, 2027, 5:00–8:00 PM

Top-performing teams will be announced and receive educational scholarship awards funded by program sponsors.

For the 2026–27 academic year, LDI will award $30,000 in total scholarships

•    1st Place – $12,000 per team
•    2nd Place – $9,000 per team
•    3rd Place – $6,000 per team
•    Each student who maintains perfect attendance will receive $100 upon completion of the program. (Scholarships can be applied toward OU educational expenses or paid directly to graduating seniors)

Digital Badges

Every cohort member earns a digital badge upon completion. A digital badge is a verified, portable, and shareable electronic credential that certifies a specific set of leadership competencies and can be displayed on LinkedIn, a resume, or a professional portfolio.