NATIONAL COLLEGE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

 

Established in 1980, the National College Leadership Conference (NCLC) is the nation’s longest-running leadership conference and summer camp for Korean American college students and recent graduates.

NCLC empowers the next generation of Korean American leaders by fostering deeper understanding of cultural identity and history while building a strong foundation in community, mentorship, and professional development.

Over 5 days and 4 nights at Pepperdine University, participants from across the country come together for an immersive experience featuring dynamic panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and meaningful mentorship with an exceptional lineup of speakers. Past speakers span a wide range of fields, including public service, business, entrepreneurship, education, media, arts and entertainment, healthcare, law, and finance.

 

NCLC delivers a transformative experience with lasting impact:

  • Career exploration, leadership development, and professional training
  • Ongoing mentorship and networking
  • Cultural education and community

NCLC 2027 will take place

June 2027 at Pepperdine University (Dates TBA).

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

COST

Applications are FREE. Participation fee upon acceptance is $500 per student.

Full financial aid is available! Please email a hardship statement to programs@kacla.org (~500 words).

KAC SUMMER INTERNSHIP

As part of its commitment to preparing students for long-term success, NCLC offers select participants a competitive, paid summer internship with KAC.

Interns design and lead a meaningful, impact-driven project addressing a timely issue affecting the Korean American community. Interns gain real world leadership skills, expand their professional network, and make a tangible difference, setting themselves apart in today’s competitive job market.

KAC’s 2026 intern project received international recognition with an Anthem Silver Award.

SUPPORT NCLC

 

Supporting NCLC is a direct investment in the future of Korean American leadership. Your contribution advances the education, empowerment, and development of emerging Korean American leaders in every sector of American society.

With NCLC’s strong retention rate and deeply rooted culture of mentorship, your support extends far beyond a single conference — it helps sustain a thriving, interconnected network of Korean American leaders committed to uplifting one another and giving back to their communities.

All donations are tax-deductible (Tax ID: 95-3823437).

2026 SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES
BECOME A SPONSOR

2026 NCLC applications are currently CLOSED.

Applications for next year’s NCLC will open early 2027.

 

▶ WHO CAN APPLY?

Korean American students passionate about leadership, community, professional development, and exploring their cultural history & identity:

  • Recent high school graduates entering their first year of college

  • Current college students

  • College students graduating summer 2026

 

▶ HOW TO APPLY

Submit an online application with the following documents:

  1. Responses to two short prompts (250+ words)
  2. Digital copy of your current transcript (unofficial copies accepted)
  3. Resume
  4. Provide TWO (2) professional references

 

▶ COST

Applications are FREE. Participation fee upon acceptance is $500 per student.

Full financial aid is available for eligible students. Please email a hardship statement to programs@kacla.org (~500 words).