Two teachers high five.

Certificate in Servant Leadership

Learn how you can instill servant leadership in your organization

Known internationally for the study of servant leadership, Gonzaga University’s School of Leadership Studies offers the Certificate in Servant Leadership to guide leaders in shaping cultures in which people and organizations thrive.

Servant leadership is a time-tested leadership disposition based on the practice of “serving first.” Espoused by well-known companies such as REI and Nordstrom, servant leadership is neither a “soft” nor naïve form of leadership; rather, it’s one in which the well-being and growth of people and organizations are kept at the center of all decisions.

In this 14-week, online course, you’ll explore servant leadership with a focus on application to real life. Through company case-studies, leader interviews, group discussions and more, you’ll not only shape your leadership identity, but develop a practical toolkit for applying servant leadership to your organization and beyond.

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“The program provided immeasurable benefits to my career and had a significant personal impact on my life… I now have an action plan to implement my full leadership potential to be a positive change in the world.” Karen Cash (’22) Natural Gas Manager, Avista Utilities

What you'll learn

  • Understand the characteristics and nuances of servant leadership.
  • Recognize your unique servant-leader identity and how it influences the way you lead.
  • Develop core emotional intelligence and interpersonal communication skills to support the growth of others.
  • Gain tools and skills to create a culture in which you, your team members and your organization can thrive.
“The program impacted my daily leadership behaviors. I prioritize listening to my subordinates and serving their greater good rather than my objectives… As their capabilities grow, they eventually become servant leaders.” Peter B. Devantara, S.J. (‘21) Country Director, Jesuit Refugee Services Indonesia

Details

  • Cost: $3,200
  • Payment Options: Payment plans, discounts, and scholarships available
  • Duration: 14 weeks (start in September or January)
  • Credits: 8 CE credits, transferable as 3 graduate credits to select master's programs
  • Format: Fully virtual with 7 live, interactive Zoom classes.
  • Time Commitment: Students tell us they typically spend 3-5 hours per week
  • Instructor: Debbie Heiser, MA | Read bio
Program Details

Testimonials

Headshot of Maki Leatherow

Maki Leatherow

"The Certificate in Servant Leadership significantly helped me become aware of who I am and what I want to be in the way that I had never experienced. It provided me with a safe place to reflect and act in the communities I belong to, so that I can continue practicing to serve those I lead better. It was also a perfect introductory course to learn what Servant Leadership is. In my case the end of the program did not end my learning journey. It led to the next chapter of my life to pursue my Master's degree in Organizational Leadership [at Gonzaga]. Lastly, I met so many incredible leaders from various fields through the program. We shared countless stories of our experiences, insights, and wisdom, which never stopped influencing me. I am forever grateful for the opportunity of continuous learning and the outstanding community of learning."

Headshot of Charles Weathers

Charles Weathers

Founder, Weathers Group

"The Certificate in Servant Leadership has served me well. It centers me, reminds me, and guides me. I find myself reflecting on the lessons in my everyday leadership practices. Prior to the course, I used the term servant leadership loosely without fully understanding and embracing the body of knowledge and practices associated with it. Now, servant leadership is more than a nice phrase or concept; it's a way of being, a stance, a posture, and a lifestyle."

Headshot of Kenneth Cameron

Kenneth Cameron

Founder, Kenneth Cameron

"In addition, to understanding how to motivate others, I better understand how to identify my motivation(s)to be a better leader. The curricula went beyond the common “lead by example” to actually seeing how all interactions a leader has are setting the bar on what is expected. The image I use when describing the certificate program is Jesus washing the feet of the disciples – a servant leader not only is willing to take on any task but actually does it. I learned that when my primary motivation is the betterment of the team and stakeholders as opposed to self-aggrandization, that how to best apply the skills from the program to my personal and professional life."