Building Purposeful Leaders: Inside GWU’s PACE Program | Bulldog Mindset

What does it mean to lead with purpose during your college years?In this episode of The Bulldog Mindset, host Dr. Greg Pillar sits down with Gardner-Webb students AJ Leyva and Issa Cogdell to explore how intentional choices shape leadership, growth, and opportunity. Through their experiences in the Searight PACE Leadership Program, both students share how they’ve moved beyond simply attending college to actively building a meaningful path forward.From discovering identity and direction to applying leadership skills in real-world settings, this conversation highlights the power of engagement, mentorship, and stepping into opportunity. AJ reflects on leadership and campus impact, while Issa connects the PACE experience to broader opportunities, including internships and future goals.The episode also features signature Bulldog Mindset moments like “What’s in Your Backpack?”—offering a glimpse into the habits, mindsets, and motivations driving student success.This is a thoughtful, authentic conversation about leadership development, personal growth, and what it means to be intentional with your time and your future at Gardner-Webb. Tune in now to explore how purpose-driven leadership is taking shape on campus and beyond. Learn more about GWU’s podcast series at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.Music on this episode includes: “Honey for Nothing” by Ikoliks and “Your Way” by Mina. The Bulldog Mindset – Season 2, Episode 17#BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #LeadershipDevelopment #CollegeLeadership #StudentSuccess #HigherEducation #CampusLeadership #StudentExperience#PACEProgram #SearightPACE #IntentionalLeadership #LeadershipGrowth #MentorshipMatters #CollegeJourney #StudentLeaders#PodcastLife #EducationPodcast #FutureLeaders #CareerDevelopment #CollegePodcast #LeadershipPodcast