The Leadership Certificate Program, founded in 2005, is designed to build and enhance leadership qualities. This program, instituted by the Leadership Consultant Council (LCC), is open to all four years of SMU students who demonstrate leadership ability. Last year, only 35 students were elected out of over 100 nominees.
As a branch of Leadership and Community Involvement (LCI), the program also stresses the mission of skill development and cultivation through experiential education, service opportunities and creative initiatives that promote a lifelong commitment to positive change.
Participants are required to attend at least six leadership workshops, two of which are the President’s Leadership Summits hosted by SMU. Additional requirements include six hours of community service and a final reflection paper.
Many students are excited about the new program. Elizabeth White, candidate for McElvaney Hall president says, “I think the Certificate program would be a great way to expand my leadership aptitude, especially when running for an officer position.”
The Leadership Certificate Program views leadership in the same light as a sport. To become a successful leader, one has to practice. The “sport of leadership” requires dedication, motivation and hard work.
Eric Shaw, the coordinator of the program states, “Leadership is your gateway to the next level.”
Last year, 10 students were certified as leaders. A major goal of the program is to teach students what is not in the book. By accessing speakers from the community .as well as the SMU student body, Shaw hopes that potential leaders can gain wisdom and insight from the leaders of today.
The program consists of five core objectives. From equipping students with a solid foundation of leadership to developing a consciousness within students regarding the need to consistently exercise their leadership, The Leadership Certificate Program prepares leaders for work at SMU and beyond.
For more registration information, visit smu.edu/lci/certificate/register.asp.
