The Certificate in Values-Based Leadership at Saint Vincent College in partnership with the Fred Rogers Institute equips professionals in child- and youth-serving fields to grow their leadership and ground their work in their values. With a focus on the leadership example of Fred Rogers and the application of research-based principles in leadership and personal development, the certificate focuses on developing leaders who prioritize service, empathy, and ethical leadership in their organizations and communities. It integrates Fred Rogers’ philosophy of compassionate leadership, emotional intelligence, and relational trust with traditional servant leadership principles.
Who Should Apply?
Students will engage with the Fred Rogers Institute to explore leadership development through research and reflection, working directly with Institute staff, including the Fred Rogers Archivist. Through their coursework, students will define a personal area of inquiry and use the Archive’s resources to develop their own research project and presentation. Students will also develop a personal leadership portfolio that connects their learning to real-world educational or service-oriented leadership.
This fully online program is designed with flexibility in mind, making it ideal for working educators. Students will have the option to conduct research in our digtial Archive or in person at the Fred Rogers Institute. The accelerated 15-credit program can be completed in just 18 months.
Our education instructors at Saint Vincent College bring a wealth of real-world experience to the classroom, combining practical knowledge with a supportive, student-centered approach. Having worked as teachers, administrators, and specialists, they understand the challenges and rewards of education firsthand. This experience allows them to provide relevant insights and personalized guidance, making them approachable mentors who are dedicated to preparing future educators for success in diverse and dynamic teaching environments.
The Certificate in Values-Based Leadership is a 15-credit, graduate-level program offered fully online. Designed for working professionals, the flexible course pacing allows you to balance your studies with full-time employment. This certificate can be pursued independently or as an extension of master’s-level programs within the Education Department at Saint Vincent College.
Note that while the sequence below is strongly recommended, it may be possible to participate in courses in a different order or pace participation. Consult with SVC Admissions by emailing gradadmission@stvincent.edu to discuss personalization options.
For more information, including course descriptions, visit the Fred Rogers Institute page.
The Fred Rogers Institute at Saint Vincent College advances Fred Rogers’ legacy by supporting students studying child development. The Institute houses the Fred Rogers Archive with over 22,000 of his personal artifacts, including speeches, scripts, videos, and puppets. Students can also conduct research in the 143 Incubator, engaging in collaborative, values-driven projects that promote child well-being and community care.
To learn more about admission requirements, please visit our Graduate Admissison webpage.
