Leadership Notes
Opportunities abound: networking and leadership
By Amy Jo Jenkins, University of Texas at Austin, National Student Representative
Attend, volunteer, present
One month into the school year, and State Workshops have already kicked-off, with Lead Ons and Regional Conferences soon to follow. October is a very busy month for students, but what better way to change the pace than by attending a NIRSA conference or workshop? Better yet, become involved in your region by volunteering at a Regional Conference or presenting at a Lead On. Student Lead Ons are “for the students, by the students,” allowing Student Members (and future members) to mingle in a fun, friendly environment suitable for networking, building relationships, and educational experiences. The opportunity to meet and interact with active student leaders in your region is invaluable. You never know ... you may be planning a Lead On in your region next year.
I encourage each Student and Professional Member of NIRSA to take advantage of these opportunities to attend, volunteer and present at conferences in your region. Upcoming Regional Conferences and Lead Ons include:
Make a Child Smile
One of the Student Leadership Team’s goals is to demonstrate exemplary service to the NIRSA community and related agencies/organizations. Each year at the Annual Conference, NIRSA collects donations for Make a Child Smile, an organization that provides emotional and financial support to families whose children suffer from chronic or life-threatening illnesses. The SLT decided to expand on this program by having donation boxes and information at Regional Conferences and Lead Ons this fall as well as at the Annual Conference in April. Keep your eye on the NIRSA Student website for more information on how to help out with this awesome cause. Or contact your Regional Student Representative to help out on your own campus.
Step up and stand
It’s that time again! Although it seems as though the Student Leadership Team is just spreading its wings, we are currently searching for students interested in standing for a leadership position. At NIRSA conferences you’ll have the opportunity to talk with Regional Student Representatives, State Representatives and Campus Contacts to decide which position would be the best fit for you. As NSR or RSR you will have the opportunity to be directly involved with NIRSA from the inside out. Opportunities include a summer retreat in Corvallis, exploration of the NIRSA National Center, interaction with Board members, input regarding NIRSA events, and brand new for 2007…the association will cover the Annual Conference registration fees for all Regional Student Representatives! Candidates may self-nominate, and all materials must be submitted by December 1.
I will be attending several of the Regional Conferences and Lead Ons, so please come up to me, introduce yourself, and share your experiences and feedback. I look forward to meeting you.
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