University Leadership Program
HACE’s University Leadership Program aims to provide high-potential students with the access, insight, and professional development opportunities to reach their career goals. As part of the program, students also build social capital by connecting with HACE corporate partners, which helps grow a dynamic and inclusive workforce.
All are Welcome: Read Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion for All.
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enhanced career preparation
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acquired negotiation strategies
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increased confidence as leaders
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broadened professional networks
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gained interview success tools
Participant Profile
Designed for undergraduate students (enrolled in a community college or 4-year college/university) nationwide.
HACE has played a pivotal role in reigniting my passion for professional development. I’ve recently committed to taking the LSAT this August, and it was incredibly refreshing to connect with someone in the program who also aspires to attend law school in Fall 2026. That shared ambition reminded me that I’m not alone on this journey. As a first-generation student, it’s easy to feel isolated or question your qualifications, but HACE has introduced me to a community of driven individuals whose dreams align with mine. This experience has not only expanded my network but has also reaffirmed that I am fully qualified and capable of achieving every opportunity I pursue.
Program Benefits for Students
• Connect with high-caliber professionals representing HACE’s corporate partners and HACE’s alumni
• Establish and build your personal brand
• Create a personal career plan
• Access to resource library with tools for college and career readiness
• $1,000 stipend upon completion of program
Program Language
All sessions and materials are in English. Based on availability, bilingual (English and Spanish) guest speakers share their struggles, successes, and lessons learned. If there are any language barriers, please address with the Programs Department, programdept@haceonline.org.
Spring 2026 Information
Onboarding
HACE Introduction & Program Overview
February 23, 2026 (Monday) & February 25, 2026 (Wednesday) 2
*Both sessions will be held 5:00-6:00PM CST/6:00-7:00PM EST via Zoom
Attendance Policy
We expect all participants to attend each session as scheduled. Given the fast-paced nature of our learning environment, we allow for only one missed session at maximum. Please note that the group presentation doesn’t qualify as an excused absence unless there’s a genuine emergency.
Tuition
The cohort’s tuition is complimentary for accepted students thanks to our sponsors.
Sessions
March 2, 2026 – Session 1: Personal Branding & Elevator Pitch
March 9, 2026 – Session 2: Resume & LinkedIn
March 16, 2026 – Session 3: Effective Networking & Building Relationships
March 23, 2026 – Session 4: Preparing for Job Interviews
March 30, 2026 – Session 5: Negotiating and Landing Job Offers
April 6, 2026 – Session 6: Best-fit Work Setting & Work-life Integration
April 13, 2026 – Session 7: Personal Finance
April 20, 2026 – Session 8: Team Project Presentation
April 27, 2026 – Session 9: Self-Awareness & Goal Setting
May 4, 2026 – Session 9: Graduation and Networking
*Sessions are held on Mondays from 5:00-7:30pm CST/6:00 8:30pm EST via Zoom.
Spring 2026 Applications
Open: December 1, 2025
Deadline: February 6, 2026
Fall 2026 Information
Onboarding
HACE Introduction & Program Overview
September 14, 2026 (Monday) 5:00-6:00PM CST/6:00-7:00PM EST via Zoom
September 15, 2026 (Tuesday) 2:00-3:00PM CST/3:00-4:00PM EST via Zoom
Attendance Policy
We expect all participants to attend each session as scheduled. Given the fast-paced nature of our learning environment, we allow for only one missed session at maximum. Please note that the group presentation doesn’t qualify as an excused absence unless there’s a genuine emergency.
Tuition
The cohort’s tuition is complimentary for accepted students thanks to our sponsors.
Sessions
September 21, 2026 – Session 1: Personal Branding & Elevator Pitch
September 28, 2026 – Session 2: Resume & LinkedIn
October 5, 2026 – Session 3: Effective Networking & Building Relationships
October 13, 2026 – Session 4: Preparing for Job Interviews
October 26, 2026 – Session 5: Negotiating and Landing Job Offers
November 2, 2026 – Session 6: Best-fit Work Setting & Work-life Integration
November 9, 2026 – Session 7: Personal Finance
November 16, 2026 – Session 8: Team Project Presentation
November 30, 2026 – Session 9: Self-Awareness & Goal Setting
December 14, 2026 – Session 10: Graduation and Networking
*Sessions are held on Mondays from 5:00-7:30pm CST/6:00 8:30pm EST via Zoom.
Fall 2026 Applications
Open: July 1, 2026
Deadline: September 1, 2026
Additional Program Information
Contact students@haceonline.org or call 312-435-0498.
*Sign up for the HACE newsletter to stay alerted of the application process, upcoming programs, events, and resources.
Partner Sponsorship Information
Contact partners@haceonline.org or call 312-435-0498