What are the program requirements?

Students must be pursuing their first bachelor’s degree.

Students must be Maryland residents (U.S. citizens or students with permanent resident status, or covered by the DACA).

Students must demonstrate that they have completed a minimum of 30 credits including or entering into one transferrable math course.

Students must be in program of study which transfers to UMCP.

Students must be available for a daytime Southern Management Leadership course each semester.

Students must be committed to additional programmatic and team-building activities.

Students must make successful progression towards graduation with an associate degree in a transferable major at PGCC and towards graduation with a bachelor’s degree at UMCP.

Students must have membership in or willingness to join one of the PGCC student organizations including the Collegian Centers.

Students must have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

When is the application deadline?

The deadline for Fall 2021 application submissions is May 31, 2021.

Who founded the Southern Management Leadership Program?

The program was founded by Suzanne Hillman (President and CEO of Southern Management Companies) and the Hillman Family, as way to enrich the education of students in Prince George's and Montgomery Counties. These communities are where Southern Management got its start more than 50 years ago, and where the company’s deep roots have stood firm ever since.

What are the selection criteria?

Students selected to be Southern Management Leaders demonstrate

an entrepreneurial mindset

Potential for becoming a successful entrepreneur or leader within a larger organization

Ability to be successful academically and graduate from PGCC and ultimately from UMCP

What is the application process?

To apply for admission, please:

  • Complete the online application.
  • Submit one letter of recommendation from a faculty member or employer.

For students who have not attended PGCC for at least two semesters, you will need to fax, email or mail your college transcript(s) from the other institution(s).

to:

SMLP@pgcc.edu 

or

Ruth V. Lewis, Program Director
Southern Management Leadership Program

Center for Health Studies, Room 3211
Prince George’s Community College
301 Largo Road
Largo, MD 20774

Is there a GPA requirement?

Yes, a GPA of 2.5 or higher is required to enter the program.

What if I already have a bachelor’s degree? Am I still eligible for the Southern Management Leadership Program?

No.

Are there any class requirements and if so what are they?

Southern Management Leaders must take one class together each semester. The required course is selected to enhance students’ entrepreneurial knowledge. Note, this course is usually offered in the afternoon.

Why do I have to be available to take afternoon classes?

Students in the program will transfer to University of Maryland, College Park which is geared to full-time students who take classes during the day. Southern Management Leadership applicants must show they have the flexibility in their schedules to matriculate at UMCP. Note, the required Southern Management Leadership course is usually offered in the afternoon.

What if I’m an international student? Am I eligible for the program?

The program is for students who intend to stay in the state of Maryland and contribute to the growth and success of the state. International students with permanent residency are eligible to apply.

What determines the amount of the scholarship at University of Maryland College Park?

It is based on financial need. Submitting a Federal Application for Free Student Aid is required to receive the scholarship at UMCP.