The nature of leadership--as a set of skills, as a model of action, as an exercise of authority--is a subject of great interest at the LBJ School. The academic program is designed to help students appreciate the importance of leadership, give them some practice at exercising it, and let them observe leaders in action. One popular course in the master's curriculum is "Principles and Practices of Effective Leadership," a seminar that examines leadership as a process and develops skills in such areas as goal setting, team building, and conflict resolution. Outside the curriculum, students have the opportunity to participate in School-sponsored conferences and workshops on various aspects of leadership. The new Center for Ethical Leadership will conduct applied research on ethics and leadership and offer leadership development opportunities for professionals in government, business, and nonprofit organizations.

Distinguished Visiting Tom Slick Professor of World Peace Howard Graves laid the groundwork for an LBJ School-based Center for Ethical Leadership before being named Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System.