LeaderShape Develops Student Leadership Skills

St. Edward’s University is home to more than 90 student organizations. An interactive program, LeaderShape, helps strengthen these organizations through greater student involvement.

The LeaderShape Institute brings this program to campuses nationwide, including St. Edward’s. Students participate in a free week-long training to enhance personal leadership skills and work together as a student community. The annual program also helps them focus on their vision for serving as leaders in student organizations and beyond.

From Student to Leader

Student Government Association president and LeaderShape participant, Austin Lytle ’09, believes every student can benefit from a LeaderShape experience. “LeaderShape is the program to do if someone is seeking leadership development, organizational development and personal development,” Lytle says. “LeaderShape has helped me get to where I am today as a student body leader and as a citizen of our society.”

Gaining the Leadership Edge

During the program, students hone their skills by creating a “blueprint” of what they would like to achieve as leaders of campus organizations. In 2007, LeaderShape participant, Jorge Almeida ’10, took this task to heart and developed a plan to expand the services of Leading E.D.G.E. — an organization focused on Exploring Dynamic Growth through Experiential Education. Now as the director of Leading E.D.G.E., Almeida says, “LeaderShape gave me a sense of direction and vision to set a plan into action on campus.”

Blueprints Boost Success

The St. Edward’s HillRaisers is another result of a LeaderShape “blueprint.” This popular spirit-boosting organization was developed by Vincent Powell ’09, with help from fellow Hilltoppers. The HillRaisers have revamped campus spirit, and Powell says, “If it was not for LeaderShape, HillRaisers would not have had the strong network of support [from students and Athletics] that made this organization possible.”

LeaderShape has honed the leadership skills of many students. Encourage your student to take the lead and apply online to attend the next LeaderShape program in February 2009.

 

Copyright © 2008 St. Edward’s University