Georgia Statewide LeaderShape Institute provides good backgroundfor VSU students this fall

Last May, the Valdosta State University's Office of Orientation & Leadership sponsored four students to attend the Georgia Statewide LeaderShape? Institute in Dahlonega, Ga. These students were Ashley Williamson, Ashley Zahn, Jonathan Stroble, and William Finney.

According to LeaderShape?'s website, the mission of the institute is to offer the highest quality state-of-the-art leadership programs focused primarily on young men and women in all settings of The LeaderShape? Institute; to facilitate their application through follow-up advisory support to participants and sponsors; and to be a catalyst in expanding leadership programs centered on leading with integrity to new audiences.

The six-day experience introduces the students to issues concerning personal and group leadership, and creating leadership goals for the future. A combination of group work, both large and small, and participating in interactive activities was a portion of the formula used to accomplish a ?leadership curriculum?.

?After the completion of the week, I returned to VSU fully energized to take on any task my organization was challenged with,? stated Jonathan Stroble, sophomore speech communications major. ?In the near future, I will be running for presidency of Kappa Sigma Fraternity and I feel I am equipped to handle any situation because of the knowledge gained at LeaderShape? 2004.?

Brenda Beasley, the VSU coordinator for LeaderShape?, was selected as a cluster facilitator for the week long event.

?After the event, I returned as charged, challenged, and motivated as the students did,? stated Beasley. ?It was a wonderful experience for me and the students.? Being a cluster facilitator gave Beasley the opportunity to work with the national facilitator for The LeaderShape? Institute.