EDUCATION

The Citadel's Bold Move: A New School for Future Leaders

Charleston, S.C., USAMon Oct 20 2025

The Citadel, a renowned institution, is embarking on a significant transformation. They are constructing a new school dedicated to leadership and ethics. This isn't just any school; it's a place where students will learn to make tough decisions using real-world scenarios.

The Krause School of Leadership and Ethics

The new Krause School of Leadership and Ethics will merge two existing programs. It will feature a specialized lab where students can practice managing crises. Using advanced technology, these situations will be simulated, allowing students to apply their classroom knowledge to real-life problems.

Guest Speakers and Real-World Learning

The school will also host a space for guest speakers. Leaders from various fields will share their experiences, providing students with insights from those who have faced real-world challenges.

A Vision for the Future

Brig. Gen. Sally Selden, head of academic affairs, envisions this school as a hub for developing leadership case studies. These studies will be valuable resources for institutions across the country. She stresses the importance of cultivating principled leaders, especially in today's complex world.

Expanding Leadership Research

The Citadel has always been synonymous with leadership. This new school will take it a step further by expanding research in leadership and ethics. The building, renovated from a former faculty administration building, will also serve as a testing ground for using artificial intelligence and other new technologies in leadership training.

Practical Application of Theory

Selden emphasizes the importance of understanding theory and knowing how to apply it. She notes that leadership issues are not always straightforward. Students need to think broadly and critically.

Looking Ahead

The groundbreaking ceremony for the new school is imminent, with plans to open in 2026. There are also discussions about adding another unit for executive leadership development in the future.

questions

    How will the Krause School of Leadership and Ethics measure the effectiveness of its ethics-focused leadership training?
    What criteria will be used to select the ethical frameworks for the innovation leadership lab?
    Will the guest speakers include leaders from the fast-food industry to teach about handling drive-thru tantrums?

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