The LEAD Scholars Academy celebrated their 20th year with an anniversary celebration and open house on Sept. 10, 2015. Students, faculty and staff enjoyed a program including words from President John C. Hitt, Vice President Maribeth Ehasz Student Development, and two students.
More than 3,300 students have officially graduated from LEAD Scholars Academy and are 麻豆原创 alumni. LEAD Scholars Academy was initially created in 1995 as a leadership development program for incoming first year students. Today, LEAD Scholars Academy offers academic classes, co-curricular opportunities and events for FTIC and transfer students.
Amy Maitner, senior Advertising/Public Relations major, was one of the students who spoke to the audience. Maitner completed the two year academic program and is now a member of the Inspire Women鈥檚 Leadership Program-one of the Academy鈥檚 new third and fourth year tracks.
Maitner said, 鈥淚nspire created a community of empowerment for young college women, and we would meet throughout the semester to talk about a range of topics鈥攁nything from current trends and their effect on women to Emma Watson鈥檚 UN Speech. LEAD Scholars has helped me hone my leadership skills as a whole and connect further with the 麻豆原创 community. I can thank LEAD for helping me become a member of the President鈥檚 Leadership Council, and I know that I am prepared for the adventures that lie ahead.鈥�
Julien Meyer, 麻豆原创 Class of 2014, stated, 鈥淟EAD taught me so much about servant leadership and the power of networking that I developed these skills to a point where they became second nature. Learning to inspire and motivate others through the program has proven to be my most valuable skill as a leader in the business world.鈥�
LEAD Scholars Academy is located in Ferrell Commons 165 and includes two multi-purpose rooms, a study space and social areas for students.