The Arsht Presidential Diplomats are a distinguished group of student leaders chosen each year by the College to represent Goucher at a variety of community-facing events and in meetings with community, governmental, and business leaders. Administered within the Roxana Cannon Arsht '35 Center for Ethics and Leadership, these twenty-five undergraduate and graduate student leaders represent the various constituencies within Goucher’s diverse student population.

The Arsht Presidential Diplomats will assist the President in representing the College at both on and off- campus events, accompany the President on visits with city, county, state, and federal governmental officials, corporate and non-profit executives, and current and prospective donors to the College. Arsht Presidential Diplomats may also be asked to serve on special Presidential and/or Board of Trustees committees, as well as provide feedback to the President on key issues. New ideas and initiatives will continue to be integrated into the scope of the Presidential Diplomats role at the College.

In the spirit of developing exemplary leaders like Roxana Cannon Arsht '35 and Adrienne Arsht, all Arsht Presidential Diplomats will have the opportunity to gain professional development leadership experience while contributing to the College through their service as a Diplomat.

Membership Benefits

• Participate in special Arsht Presidential Diplomats-only leadership development workshops with non-profit organization, corporate, and governmental leaders.
• Accompany the President and meet with local, state, and national governmental officials and civic leaders.
• Represent Goucher College at various community events.
• Participate in local, national, and global recruitment initiatives with the President, Provost, and/or Vice President of Enrollment Management & Student Success.
• Receive invitations to exclusive high-profile Goucher events.
• Become eligible to be nominated as a recent graduate trustee to the Board of Trustees upon graduation.

Eligibility

Membership is limited to twenty-five currently enrolled Goucher College undergraduate and graduate students. Prospective Diplomats must be actively engaged in their respective academic communities, maintain a GPA of 3.00, and remain in good standing as per the Goucher College Student Handbook.

Prospective Diplomats must possess strong leadership skills, communication skills, and demonstrate a sense of Goucher Pride as evidenced by their involvement in Goucher affiliated organizations and/or athletic teams.

Once selected, members commit to attend a professional leadership development workshop, monthly meetings and/or other relevant programming, equalling 20 hours per semester of contributed time. 

Selection Process

Selection is based on a nomination, application, and interview process. Goucher College faculty, staff, AAGC members, and currently enrolled students may elect to nominate a currently enrolled Goucher College student by completing the Presidential Diplomats Nomination form. Self-nominations are accepted. 

Members of the Arsht Presidential Diplomats will be invited to renew annually provided the student continues to remain enrolled at Goucher College, maintains all other eligibility requirements, and upholds the policies outlined in the Arsht Presidential Diplomats Membership Agreement.

• Nominations are available on Monday, February 17, 2025. 
• Students selected for an interview will be notified Friday, February 28, 2025. 
• Applications are due Friday, March 21, 2025 by 5 pm. 
• All interviews will occur between April 7-11, 2025. 
• Students extended an invitation to become an Arsht Presidential Diplomat after April 25, 2025. 

Nomination Form  Application Form