The Institute:

• Creates opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students from multiple faculties across the university and province to develop leadership knowledge to excel in their careers in any field, from technology and trades to health science, and the fine arts.
• Provides a knowledge centre for innovative educational programming in leadership, leading social change and related subjects, including programming to serve faculties across disciplines at the University of Manitoba; and
• Is a research hub located at the Asper School of Business to conduct and support  knowledge creation on leadership and organization studies  contributing to scholarly outlets internationally.

The Institute's work is guided by principles of innovation, inclusivity and interdisciplinary focus. It supports and develops the potential of young leaders at post-secondary institutions across Manitoba, following the example of effective leadership in critical sectors and across communities in the province. Through specialized programming such the President's Student Leadership Program, as well as student-centred seminars, workshops, service learning and peer learning, the Institute provides students opportunities for personal and professional development to contribute to social, economic and cultural wellbeing.

The Institute is led by two newly created Chairs. Dr. Suzanne Gagnon, Associate Professor of Leadership and Organization at the Asper School of Business, holds the Canada Life Chair in Leadership Education, and is Director of the Institute. Dr. Zhenyu Wu, Associate Dean Research and Graduate Research Programs, is the IG Wealth Management Chair in Leadership Research.  Ms. Melissa Gayle is Institute Program Coordinator. The James W. Burns Leadership Institute at the I.H. Asper School of Business was  created through visionary endowment from Canada Life, IG Wealth Management and the Power Corporation of Canada, as well as the Province of Manitoba.