LeaderShape Institute FAQ

The LeaderShape Institute for Dickinson College  January 13-18, 2013

What:  The LeaderShape Institute is a six-day, residential experience that focuses on increasing the leadership and personal capacity of participants.  LeaderShape has been named by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation as an exemplary program for college student leadership development.

Who:  LeaderShape is open to all Dickinson College students. You do not need to be a “leader” on campus to benefit from this program. In fact, students expecting traditional leadership skill training (such as learning to run meetings, set agendas, work with committees) will likely be disappointed in the program. LeaderShape is about broader concepts associated with leadership – learning who you are, what you care about, and how to translate that to action. Everyone can benefit from thinking about leadership development in this way. And you’ll have fun and make new friends while learning.

Where:  LeaderShape is conducted retreat style, away from the distractions of campus. Our program will be held at the Black Rock Conference and Retreat Center in Quarryville, PA., about an hour and a half from campus. Lodging will be in motel-style rooms and transportation to and from the retreat will be provided as will meals and supplies.

When:  You will depart campus at noon on Sunday, January 13 and return to Dickinson by 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 18. We selected this week in January for several reasons. First, we often hear students say that they wish the winter break did not extend quite so long and that they could return to campus earlier and something productive to do! Second, participants will have a full semester in front of them to practice and implement the skills learned at LeaderShape.

Early Return to Campus: Students selected to participate will be permitted to return to Dickinson housing on Saturday, January 12 to prepare for departure the next day. Arrival prior to Saturday is not permitted and alternative off-campus lodging will need to be secured if such occurs.

Cost:  The only cost to participants will be a modest $25 fee for supplies and materials that will be yours to keep. Your lodging, meals and transportation to and from LeaderShape will all be covered.

Expectations:  Selected participants will agree to participate in the entire experience. Participants agree to honor the expectations for the program which are designed to maximize the learning experience for all.

How to Apply:  Apply online by October 10, the deadline for submitting applications for Dickinson’s session.  Students selected to participate in LeaderShape will be notified by mid-November and will receive additional information about travel, logistics, and preparation for the institute.

Questions:  If you have questions, please contact Erica Gordon, Assistant Director of Campus Life at gordone@dickinson.edu.