Institute for Ethical Leadership

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Cultivating Ethical Leaders for Positive Change

The Institute, grounded in the principles of Natural Law, seeks to cultivate leaders who act with integrity, justice, and respect for the inherent dignity of every person. Through education, research, and community engagement, the Institute aims to inspire individuals and organizations to make decisions that promote the Common Good, human flourishing or the development of the whole person, and the pursuit of truth in all spheres of life. Our mission is to empower leaders to navigate complex changes with wisdom and compassion.

Mission, Vision, and Values

The Institute is the premier think-tank in Florida, dedicated to helping public and private entities navigate the complex waters of contemporary ethical issues or questions. The Institute aims to help professionals—across all occupations—apply the clearest and most comprehensive ethical theories to advance the Common Good.

Academic Programs

The Institute boasts multiple graduate programs in ethical leadership and an enhanced undergraduate experience grounded in the intellectual tradition of the Catholic Church.

Leadership Development Programs

The Institute provides workshops, seminars, and certifications in ethical leadership, virtue ethics, and Natural Law theory, for professionals across various industries. Programs could include topics such as ethical decision-making, values- or virtue-based leadership, and the examination of contemporary issues and case studies.

Research and Thought Leadership

A hub for cutting-edge research in ethical leadership and virtue ethics, and a resource for resolving and investigating contemporary ethical dilemmas.

Community and Corporate Engagement

The Institute boasts dozens of partnerships with Florida businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies to address ethical challenges—providing consulting and advisory services to implement ethical leadership frameworks.

Student Engagement and Development

The Institute offers a variety of internships, externships, and mentorship programs that promote ethical practices within the campus and local community.

Institute for Ethical Leadership Academic Programs

Core Undergraduate Program

The Institute for Ethical Leadership is proud to offer the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Ethical Leadership, a liberal arts degree that provides a well-rounded, multi-semester program designed to equip students with a strong foundation in ethical theory and practical application. Students may choose to pursue Ethical Leadership as either a major or minor. All courses are taught in person and on campus, providing an immersive learning experience. This degree is not currently available in an online format.

Courses are taught by esteemed theologians, philosophers, and thought leaders, and span diverse disciplines such as psychology, law, and counseling—reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of a liberal arts education.

As a liberal arts degree, the BA in Ethical Leadership prepares students with essential skills such as:

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving skills that apply across all professional fields.
  • Strong written and verbal communication abilities, essential for effective leadership.
  • Ethical reasoning and cultural awareness to lead with integrity in diverse environments.
  • Adaptability and lifelong learning, preparing graduates to navigate a rapidly changing world.

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Ethical Leadership prepares students to excel professionally while also empowering them to make meaningful, positive contributions to their communities and organizations.

Academic Programs

Core Graduate Master’s Program

The Institute for Ethical Leadership offers three fully online, asynchronous Master of Arts (MA) degrees in Ethical Leadership. Students may pursue a general track or choose to specialize in Higher Education or Sports Administration.

These graduate degrees are designed for professionals looking to advance their leadership capabilities and make a meaningful impact within industry, government, education, and the nonprofit sector—enhancing both individual performance and organizational effectiveness.

Academic Programs

Core Doctoral Program

The Institute for Ethical Leadership offers three fully online, asynchronous Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Ethical Leadership. These include a general Ph.D. in Ethical Leadership track, a Ph.D. in Ethical Leadership with a specialization in Criminal Justice, and a Ph.D. in Ethical Leadership with a specialization in Higher Education. Each degree cultivates advanced leadership grounded in ethical principles, interdisciplinary scholarship, and critical inquiry—emphasizing higher-order thinking, contemplative reflection, and rigorous logical reasoning to help you navigate complex challenges with clarity, integrity, and purpose.

Rooted in the foundations of leadership theory, ethics, management practice, psychology, assessment, research methodology, and policy development, our curriculum seamlessly bridges theory and real-world application across diverse organizational and community contexts. Through a highly collaborative, intellectually engaging environment, you’ll engage in rich dialogue, deep analysis, and thoughtfully designed learning experiences that foster professional growth and contribute to a dynamic academic community.

Our doctoral students typically hold—or aspire to—leadership roles in higher education, public service, healthcare, business, nonprofit organizations, K–12 administration, and the military (e.g., executives, directors, supervisors, and principals), positioning them to drive meaningful change and uphold the highest standards of ethical leadership.

Academic Programs

Institute for Ethical Leadership Initiatives

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Give Now

This work is not possible without you.  The Institute for Ethical Leadership relies on donations to fund its efforts. As we help others chart a course toward ethical action to improve our nation and our communities, we are asking for your help. Will you consider partnering with us, starting today?

Give Now

For more information on the Institute for Ethical Leadership at STU, please contact Program Director Dr. Jaime Franco.

Institute for Ethical Leadership
16401 NW 37th Avenue
Miami Gardens, FL 33054
O) 305.628.6512 (C) 305.934.7634
Email: JFranco2@STU.EDU

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