Seven Spheres of Leadership
The Brown Center for Leadership and Service (BCLS) empowers students through seven interconnected spheres of leadership development. Each sphere represents a critical dimension of effective leadership and includes key competencies to help you lead with confidence and impact.
Foundations
What It Is: Core knowledge of leadership theories and principles.
Competencies:
- Understanding leadership, followership, and management
- Differentiating leadership theories and models
- Applying foundational concepts to real-world contexts
Individual / Intrapersonal
What It Is: Self-awareness and personal growth.
Competencies:
- Identifying values, identities, and leadership style
- Practicing resilience and self-care
- Building confidence, authenticity, and self-efficacy
Group / Interpersonal
What It Is: Building and sustaining effective teams.
Competencies:
- Collaboration and active listening
- Mentorship, coaching, and empowerment
- Conflict resolution and facilitation
- Emotional intelligence and team dynamics
Organizational
What It Is: Leading within structured systems.
Competencies:
- Understanding organizational culture and communication
- Strategic planning and evaluation
- Succession planning and sustainability
Community / Societal
What It Is: Community engagement and social responsibility.
Competencies:
- Advocacy and service for community impact
- Understanding the larger context of leadership in relation to community and societal needs
Strategic
What It Is: Visionary and systems-level leadership.
Competencies:
- Critical analysis and systems thinking
- Creative problem-solving and design thinking
- Mission, vision, and goal development
- Strategic planning and informed risk-taking
Career
What It Is: Professional readiness and lifelong employability.
Competencies:
- Communication and teamwork
- Critical thinking and technology integration
- Professionalism and leadership
- Continuous self-development and career planning
Want to grow in these areas? Explore our consultations, workshops, and programs designed to help you thrive in every sphere of leadership.