Lycoming student leaders participate in Student Leadership Challenge Experience in Gettysburg

2015 May 4

Allison de Haas, a sophomore with a major in political science, was one of fifteen Lycoming College students who traveled to Gettysburg to the first Student Leadership Challenge Experience (SLCE), a two-day off-campus experiential learning opportunity, on April 10-11 at the Gettysburg National Battlefield Park.

The first day consisted of an intensive battlefield tour where participants learned about the generals and colonels who made key decisions on both the Union and Confederate sides and how those decisions demonstrated great opportunities to learn about leadership styles, approaches and their effectiveness. It was a hands-on experience that involved discussing leadership lessons and group exercises, such as building fences and loading fake cannons. The second day focused on an intense reflection session that drew parallels between the leadership lessons learned on day on the battlefield and the experiences the students have had in their past. These reflections were used to look ahead and encourage the students to see how they can become more effective leaders in the future.

"Our hope is that participants in the program will be able to apply what they have learned in a new and experiential way that will serve to be memorable for their future endeavors," said Lawrence Mannolini III, director of student programs and leadership development at Lycoming College.

Led by staff members from the Office of Student Programs and Leadership Development and the Gettysburg Foundation, the Student Leadership Challenge Experience (SLCE) is an all-encompassing leadership development opportunity that encourages participants to draw upon prior leadership experiences from both inside and outside of the classroom. The SLCE is a unique and distinct advancement of the student leadership programs offered to the students. It also drew upon concepts from the Student Leadership Challenge, a leadership development model used in many of the programs and workshops offered by the Lycoming College Office of Student Programs and Leadership Development.

About Lycoming College

Lycoming College is a four-year, residential liberal arts and sciences school dedicated to the undergraduate education of 1,400 students. Its rigorous academic program, vibrant residential community and supportive faculty foster successful student outcomes. Lycoming offers 36 academic majors and is recognized as a Tier 1 institution by U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1812 and located near the banks of the Susquehanna River in Williamsport, Pa., Lycoming is one of the 50 oldest colleges in the nation. For more information, visit www.lycoming.edu.