Nate Crain Leadership Development and Training Programs

Crain Leadership Endowment Fund

Who is Nate Crain?

Nate Crain is chairman and CEO of Crain Investments and Consulting. He is an entrepreneur and consultant, political activist, and community supporter. While at SMU he served in senior leadership positions in Student Senate, Program Council, and the Leadership Consultant Program. He received the prestigious "M" Award, the John L. Freehafer Award (twice), and was named in Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. Nate is very passionate about Student Affairs, especially leadership programming and student engagement outside the classroom.

Campaigns and Elections Magazine named him a "Rising Star" in politics in 2005. A couple of past recipients are ABC News Sunday anchor, George Stephanopolous and former Senior Aide to President Bill Clinton, Paul Begala. Nate lives in Dallas with his wife, Christina Melton Crain, and their three dogs.

two students building tower with balloons and two students sitting at table inflating balloons

Crain Emerging Leaders Program

The Crain Emerging Leaders Program is a leadership development opportunity for first-year, first-semester students who want to get involved, build meaningful relationships, and grow as leaders at SMU. Through weekly meetings, guest speakers, hands-on activities, and engaging discussions, participants explore leadership opportunities across campus while developing skills that will support their success at SMU and beyond. Students gain confidence, strengthen their leadership capacity, and build a network of peers committed to making a positive impact

Crain Emerging Leaders alumni go on to serve in influential campus leadership roles, including Student Body President, Resident Assistant, Orientation Leader, Student Senator, and many other student organization leadership positions. 

Applications are open for the Fall 2026 cohort

Apply Today on SMU360
group of students in white sweatshirt with "Cultivate" in blue ink and "a leadership think tank" in red ink, standing in front gray wall of sign "Crain Leadership"

Cultivate “A Leadership Think Tank”

Cultivate is a semester-long program for juniors and seniors focused on leadership reflection, personal growth, and future planning. Through weekly conversations and guided self-discovery, students develop a deeper understanding of their values, strengths, and leadership identity while exploring their impact within organizations and communities. Cultivate is designed to help students make the most of their remaining time at SMU while preparing for a meaningful transition into careers, graduate school, and life after college.

Applications will open November 2026

14 orientation leaders posing on Dallas Hall lawn

Crain Leadership Launch

Crain Leadership Launch is a high-energy leadership experience held in the Hughes-Trigg Student Center that introduces students to leadership through fun, interactive, and hands-on activities. Participants will connect with peers, explore key leadership concepts in an engaging environment, and discover how leadership shows up in everyday life at SMU

  • Fall Semester: September 16, HTSC second floor, 3-5 PM
  • Spring Semester: February 10, HTSC second floor, 3-5 PM
graphic of two people walking outside on path carrying backpacks with grass, trees, sky, sun in backgroud

TRAIL: A Transfer Leadership Programs

TRAIL is a four-week leadership experience designed specifically for transfer students who want to jump-start their involvement at SMU. Participants will explore campus opportunities and discover how their previous experiences can contribute to their success on the Hilltop. Along the way, students build meaningful connections with other transfers, develop their leadership skills, and find a supportive community that helps them thrive at SMU.

Applications are now closed for Fall 2026