CMU among nation’s best colleges for future leaders

Central Michigan University has been named to TIME’s Best Colleges for Future Leaders 2026 list.

CMU is one of only four universities in Michigan to rank in the top 125 colleges by TIME, which evaluated 4,800 of “the most influential figures shaping U.S. society today” in compiling their list, according to their methodology page.

The recognition speaks to CMU's vision of being nationally known for preparing innovators, learners and leaders who positively impact their local and global communities.

“At CMU, students have access to leadership development programs from their very first day on campus through IMPACT and Leadership Safari,” said Dan Gaken, director of the Sarah R. Opperman Leadership Institute. “They can continue that journey through activities both in and out of the classroom. Faculty, staff, Registered Student Organizations and numerous program offices university-wide provide hundreds of opportunities annually for students to identify and strengthen their leadership style. We believe that everyone has the ability, and the responsibility, to lead.”

Since 1997, CMU’s Sarah R. Opperman Leadership Institute has stood  as Michigan’s most comprehensive university center for leadership development, training and education. More than 4,000 students are involved in CMU’s leadership programs each year.

CMU is also the first public university in the state of Michigan to offer an academic minor in leadership.