At the core of the Blackburn experience is the curriculum that guides new students through their first year with the institute. This curriculum is designed to reinforce leadership development, learning, and civic outcomes aligned with overarching values of the Blackburn Institute. Starting with their selection in the spring semester, new students are guided through a one-year curriculum that introduces them to the vision, mission, and values of the institute; builds their personal and professional skills; provides them with opportunities for authentic relationship-building with possible mentors; engages them in civic work to improve the campus or Tuscaloosa community; and challenges them to actively listen to and understand diverse points of view.
Included in the curriculum are several mandatory events, including:
In addition, selected students commit to the following activities:
Blackburn students are nominated and selected from current undergraduate, graduate, and professional students who have demonstrated leadership potential. Students must be enrolled and in good standing at The University of Alabama. Students are expected to participate actively in the institute’s curriculum to remain in good standing with the organization.
Selection as a Blackburn student does not automatically assure that one will be named a Blackburn Fellow upon graduation. The removal of a Blackburn student may be carried out for the following reasons:
