The Future Leaders Initiative (FLI) at the Paul Merage School of Business prepares talented high school and community college students for careers at the intersection of business, technology, and innovation.
FLI is designed as an early exposure and leadership development program that introduces students to real-world professional opportunities and academic pathways. Through immersive programming, students gain insight into how business and technology shape today’s economy and how they can become industry innovators through higher education.
When surveyed, 90% of parents believed the program is changing the way their child thinks about the job they will obtain after college.
By supporting the Future Leaders Initiative, you help students engage with industry professionals and guest speakers, tour local companies and learn about job opportunities within Orange County, and most importantly, gain confidence in pursuing ambitious goals to build a brighter future.
“What I appreciated most about FLI is that it gave us the space to be more than just students. It allowed us to be leaders, learners, and most importantly — humans. We were encouraged to ask deep questions, to reflect on our stories, and to grow together.”
- Aaron Gonzalez ’25
“That commitment to human value, that’s what the Future Leaders Initiative gave us. Yes, we visited corporate offices and toured engineering labs. But more than that, we were invited to ask questions, share perspectives, and see ourselves not just as future interns or job candidates, but as future builders of something better.”
- Sarena Yu ’25
| Rank | State | Gifts |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CA | 14 |
| 2 | OR | 1 |
| 3 | AA | 0 |
