The McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character (MCLC) at the United States Military Academy at West Point brings together students from around the world and challenges them to explore and share their unique leadership ideals in a diverse setting, under the guidance and mentorship of senior fellows from a broad spectrum of industries. The conference is held annually in March and has been hosted each year by the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership. Since its inception, the event has touched the lives of over 600 students and senior leaders through its exploration of relevant and timely themes.
University nomination
Invitation is by university nomination only and is open to current undergraduate sophomores and juniors in Columbia College, Columbia Engineering and the School of General Studies. To apply for nomination, click "Start Your Application" and complete all application materials before the deadline. Interested candidates should only apply if fully committed to and schedule is open to attend the conference in March.
The 2026 McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character conference will be held: Thursday, March 12 – Sunday, March 15th, 2026 at the U.S. Military Academy West Point, New York