The Washburn University Leadership Institute held its “Lunch with the Leadership Institute” event Oct. 6 in the Lincoln Dining Hall from 12-1 p.m.
Leadership Institute is an academic and a co-curricular department. They have a leadership studies minor and four leadership courses. Half of the program is co-curricular including planning and hosting events, which are mostly organized by the student leadership council.
Around five students were in attendance in the Lincoln Dining Hall including the members of the student leadership council. The event was led by Gayle Davis, the administrative specialist, and Loreine Edelman, the organization’s director.
The Leadership Institute wanted to make their staff members more available to the students who would like to join. One of their ways to reach out to students was through having lunch together. Last month, they were in a cafe in Memorial Union. This month, they went over to Lincoln Dining to meet with any students who wanted to eat with them.
According to Davis, she is affirmative that the Leadership Institute is making some changes for next year.
“So, we are here if they have any questions about the changes or just the courses,” Davis said. “We are just talking, answering any questions that students have — just socializing with them basically.”
The Leadership Institute has about 80 different majors on campus involved with a minor. They have about 300 students overall on their email list. They mostly attract people through emails.
Keira Bird, a sophomore anthropology major, is one of the members of the Student Leadership Council. She shared her experience in the institute.
“This is my second year here,” Bird said. “We just talk about everything. I like to get to know what’s going on.”
Rene Cabrera, a freshman public administration major and member of the organization, expressed his thoughts on the Leadership Institute.
“I have attended some of the events in the past,” Cabrera said. “I think it is a really good opportunity for people to be able to experience leadership in action and to be able to help you to succeed for your future.” Rene Cabrera, a freshman public administration major, is one of the members of the institute. Cabrera expressed his thoughts on the organization.
The Leadership Institute is planning All Institute Night on Nov. 2, 2023.
Edited by Larissa Morgan and Jayme Thompson
