Undergraduate students in any major across the University of Nebraska–Lincoln can apply to the 2026-27 Ameritas Emerging Leaders Academy, a leadership development program that combines industry training, CliftonStrengths coaching and hands-on innovation projects.
Applications will be accepted through 11:59 p.m. Monday, April 13. Admission decisions will be released in mid-April, with the new cohort meeting on April 30.
“Through the academy, students have an opportunity to develop leadership skills, gain problem-solving experience and better understand their own strengths,” said Bob Jurgensmeier, chief executive officer of Ameritas. “These will be tremendous assets as they prepare for successful careers.”
The academy, coordinated by the university's Center for Executive and Professional Development, selects 20 students each year for a seven-month program held one Friday per month from September through April. Participants build leadership and professional skills through sessions on communication, change management, innovation and the insurance industry, while working with a Gallup-Certified CliftonStrengths coach to better understand and apply their strengths.
The experience culminates in a two-month innovation project. Teams design prototype solutions to challenges facing the insurance industry and present them to Ameritas senior leadership. Past projects explored improving digital experiences for agents and customers, applying artificial intelligence to insurance processes, strengthening employee recognition and retention, and increasing adoption of self-service platforms.
“The innovation project allowed me to apply my experience from the program sessions to real-world problems facing Ameritas,” said Jaden Tchalassi, an actuarial science major from Greenwood, Nebraska, who participated in the 2024-25 cohort. “It forced me to think deeper and connect my prior knowledge to consult for Ameritas.”
Amber Messersmith, executive director of the Center for Executive and Professional Development and the program’s faculty lead, said the direct connection between students and industry leaders sets the experience apart.
“This academy gives students the rare chance to build leadership skills while solving real challenges facing the insurance industry,” she said. “From change management to innovation, they learn in ways that connect the classroom with the workplace. The energy and commitment from both our students and Ameritas leaders have only grown in the program’s second year.”
Open to undergraduate students of any major, the program gives preference to juniors and seniors who are eager to build leadership skills, gain industry experience and connect with professionals. Selected students participate at no cost.
More information and application details are available at business.unl.edu/ameritasacademy.
