Purpose
Traditional leadership training in medical education often emphasizes titles and management skills but does little to help future physicians make intentional, values-aligned career decisions. This gap contributes to physician burnout and dissatisfaction. The LEAD+ Certificate Program addresses this need by blending leadership development, self-discovery, and business acumen into an experiential track that prepares medical students to navigate career choices with purpose and resilience.

Methods
LEAD+ is a multi-year program built on four pillars: Leveraging Your Degree, Embodying Your Identity, Activating Leadership Skills, and Driving Systemic Impact. Through immersive workshops, guided reflection, mentorship from faculty and hospital leaders, and strategic networking, students explore their values, leadership styles, and long-term vision for their careers. The program emphasizes understanding healthcare systems and developing leadership skills that support informed specialty and practice-setting choices aligned with well-being and fulfillment. Graduates receive a Certificate of Distinction and recognition in the MSPE.

Results
Launching its first cohort in 2026, early student surveys indicate strong demand for structured leadership development integrated into undergraduate medical education. We anticipate that LEAD+ graduates will demonstrate increased self-awareness, leadership confidence, and the ability to make intentional career decisions that reduce burnout risk and foster long-term satisfaction. Longitudinal evaluation will assess outcomes including residency match decisions, leadership roles, and career satisfaction.

Conclusion
LEAD+ introduces a scalable approach to leadership education by shifting focus from titles to authentic, values-driven decision-making. By preparing students to thrive personally and professionally while driving systemic impact, LEAD+ offers a model for integrating leadership training into medical education globally.