Supported by the Rosenfield Family Foundation
Leading Expeditions Program

Learn. Explore. Lead.

High Stakes Leaders are equipped to handle uniquely challenging objectives with confidence.

Leading Expeditions is a transformational co-curricular opportunity to immerse yourself in the study and application of leadership. These experiences allow you to apply knowledge gained in the classroom during an exhilarating outdoor adventure in one the most beautiful settings in the U.S.

The concept behind the Leading Expeditions Program is simple but deep: Through intensive, immersive experiences, we can learn lifelong lessons about leading and active followership, including opportunities to discover and develop the following skills of a High Stakes Leader:

  • Communication
  • Trust
  • Teamwork
  • Negotiation
  • Conflict management
  • Adaptability
  • Managing emotions

The Leading Expeditions program is also eligible for credit within the Dean's Leadership Academy and funding within the Second-year Transformational Experience Program (STEP).


Program Requirements

4 students in front of Longs Peak

Rocky Mountain Leaders Expedition

Estes Park and Boulder, Colorado

An unforgettable climbing and mountaineering adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, and nearby destinations. You will experience thrilling altitude and stunning scenery while testing your grit to reach some impressive summits. As you and your teammates undergo what might be the biggest physical challenge of your lives, learning to support each other well is key. You will also be introduced to taller multi-pitch climbing, which is an ambitious affirmation of you ability to manage fear, trust one another, and work as a team towards a complex objective. 


Itinerary

Note: This expedition is offered twice, each with slightly different dates and itineraries.

August 2 - 9, 2025

Aug. 2.....Arrivals | Opening Dinner
Aug. 3.....Deer Mountain Hike | Rock Climbing I: Mary's Lake
Aug. 4.....Rock Climbing II: Jurassic Park | Lily Mountain Hike
Aug. 5.....Twin Sisters Peak Hike | Rock Climbing III: Performance Park
Aug. 6.....Flattop-Hallett Peak Hike | Explore Downtown Estes Park
Aug. 7.....Longs Peak Prep Day
Aug. 8.....Longs Peak Summit | Closing Dinner
Aug. 9.....Departures

August 9 - 16, 2025

Aug. 9.......Arrivals; Opening Dinner
Aug. 10.....Deer Mountain Hike | Rock Climbing I: Mary's Lake
Aug. 11.....Rock Climbing II: Jurassic Park | Lily Mountain Hike
Aug. 12.....Twin Sisters Peak Hike | Rock Climbing III: Performance Park
Aug. 13.....Flattop-Hallett Peak Hike | Explore Downtown Estes Park
Aug. 14.....Multi-pitch Climbing: Eldorado Canyon
Aug. 15.....The DeCaLiBron: Four 14ers in One Day | Closing Dinner
Aug. 16.....Departures


Expedition Requirements

  • Enrollment in BUSMHR 3500: High Stakes Leadership (3 credits) in SP25 semester
  • Enrollment in BUSMHR 3501.03: Rocky Mountain Leaders Expedition (1 credit) in AU25 semester 
  • Program fee: $700
    • Includes all ground transportation while in Colorado, lodging, meals, rental gear, and activity-related expenses.
    • Participants are responsible for purchasing their own airfare to and from Colorado and may need to purchase some items from the packing list.

Apply to the Rocky Mountain Leaders Expedition

For questions or additional information, please contact Dr. Timothy Judge at judge.56@osu.edu

 

The Leading Expeditions program is proudly supported by the Rosenfield Family Foundation.