Rice University’s Doerr Institute for New Leaders marked a year of student growth and leadership development at its annual Leadership Celebration last month, bringing together students, coaches and community members to reflect on a year defined by transformation and impact.
Held on campus, the event serves as both a recognition of student achievement and a snapshot of Rice’s expanding leadership culture. Students from undergraduate, graduate and MBA programs joined Doerr’s professional leadership coaches to celebrate a year spent strengthening skills, clarifying purpose and learning to lead with intention.
Throughout the evening, the focus remained on student growth. Over the past year, participants engaged in one-on-one and group coaching as well as workshops designed to build core leadership competencies such as decision-making, feedback, delegation and self-awareness. Across programs, students reported increased confidence, clearer purpose and a stronger sense of voice in how they lead.
“Academic year 2025-2026 was memorable for the many outstanding efforts expended by Doerr Institute participants,” said Bernie Banks, director of the institute. “The diligence and passion displayed by Rice students regarding their development as leaders continues to make us optimistic about how they will positively impact the world.”
A central part of that growth is driven by Doerr’s professional leadership coaches, whose work with students spans hundreds of hours each year. Through guided reflection and personalized development, coaches help students challenge assumptions and take meaningful steps toward their goals, shaping not only individual progress but the broader leadership culture on campus.
The celebration also highlighted student voices with outgoing lead ambassadors for the undergraduate and graduate communities sharing reflections on their experiences.
“Many of the qualities and skills you learn in Doerr transcend leadership,” said senior Gavin Daves, lead undergraduate ambassador (2024-26).
For graduate students, programs like the Coaching Skills for Leaders cohort proved especially impactful.
“Over the course of that year, I learned about building trust, motivating others and how to help people work together — skills I didn’t know you could learn,” said Molly Wise, lead graduate ambassador (2025-26).
Rice undergraduate and graduate students can register to build their skills and enjoy coaching opportunities through Doerr’s virtual programs this summer at riceleader.org. The deadline to register is May 15.