Leadership Safari Frequently Asked Questions | Sarah R. Opperman Leadership Institute

What is Leadership Safari?

Leadership Safari is one of our greatest traditions. This three-day guided experience is designed to help new students learn about Central Michigan University, leadership, and themselves. Participants are placed in small groups of approximately 10 students led by student facilitators referred to as Safari Guides. Guides, along with other staff members, accompany participants through various experiences such as team builders, leadership activities and campus resource exploration. Open to all first-year students, including transfer students, this program is the perfect way to start your CMU journey.

When does Leadership Safari take place?

Leadership Safari is a three-day experience and will take place August 19-21, 2025. Move-in for Leadership Safari participants and a program welcome will be Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

How do I register?

You may register for Leadership at this link. Registration will close on August 1st, or when the Safari delegation has been filled.

How much is the conference?

The registration fee for Leadership Safari is $125. This will be billed to your student account after the conference. Students who are eligible for a full Pell Grant may register for Safari at no cost. Students will partial Pell eligibility may request a fee waiver by emailing Safari@cmich.edu.

I signed up for IMPACT, do I need to attend Leadership Safari?

Yes. IMPACT and Safari are connected but provide different experiences. IMPACT is designed specifically to meet the needs of historically underrepresented students, first-generation college students and multicultural students. After attending IMPACT, all participants join Leadership Safari.

Where do I live during Safari?

If you are living on campus with Residence Life, you will move into your residence hall room early. If you live off-campus, you'll need to provide your own transportation to campus, but meals and all activities are included!

Where can I get a feel for the conference?

Enjoy the sights and sounds of Safari! Click on the links below to get a feel for the incredible energy of this conference:

2022 Leadership Safari Conference Video

Where can I ask questions?

Please do not hesitate to contact the Leadership Institute staff with any questions you have as you prepare to make this important transition to CMU! You can call us at 989-774-LEAD (5323) or email at safari@cmich.edu.