Athena Center for Leadership

We're the leadership center you've been looking for.

We'll help you figure out how you can lead change and give you opportunities to practice leading change, in a supportive community, outside of the classroom.

We're here for all Barnard students, at all points of your Barnard experience. Scroll down to see how you can get involved or just drop by and we'll figure it out together!

What can you do here?

See how others are leading change.

Don't have time to take on a specific project, or to explore a specific method of changemaking — or don't feel ready to do that yet? That's okay! SPARK, our event series, and the Athena Film Festival will inspire you and ignite your thinking about what's possible and what you might do. They're open to everyone and you can take part in whatever way works for you.

This year, our theme for SPARK is transition. Be sure to tell us what you'd like to see in this series! And save the date for the 2026 Athena Film Festival, which will take place March 5 - 8, 2026.

Find a community of practice.

Communities of practice are where we roll up our sleeves and get to work here at Athena. Our communities of practice provide (1) meaningful connections with students who share your interests, (2) mentorship and guidance from experts and experienced changemakers, (3) an ungraded space to try something new, take a risk, get it wrong, and try again, and (4) funding or help accessing funding from external sources so you can dedicate the time and attention.

Read about how these work and find information about eligibility and application deadlines.

Come talk to us!

Not sure what community of practice is right for you? Or if you even want to join one? Or maybe you do want to join one, but the timing isn't working for you right now? Maybe you want to join one, but aren't seeing it on the list?

Whatever your reason, we'd love to get to know you so that we can identify ways to help you with your individual needs.

Our team members hold office hours and we welcome drop-ins too. Our space is open from 10-5 pm every weekday, and if the CoLab isn't in use, you're welcome to use it to collaborate with others.