Don’t Just Go…L.E.A.D. 

The Global L.E.A.D. Program is a unique way to see the world through a different lens.  A new way is needed to go abroad; bringing to life a local community while engaging oneself through the elements of Leadership, Education, Adventure, and Diplomacy (L.E.A.D.).  Instead of just transplanting an American classroom overseas for course credit, the Global L.E.A.D. program adds an entirely new dimension to international study. Through a uniquely designed curriculum we challenge each participant to stretch beyond their comfort zone, engage in dialogue with cutting-edge Leaders, explore Education outside the classroom, experience the adrenaline rush of extreme adventures, and serve local communities during their time overseas.

The Report of the Secretaries of State: Bipartisan Advice to the Next Administration. April 28th, 2008 Athens, Georgia: FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Global L.E.A.D. member Kevin Scott, Secretary Colin Powell, Terence Smith, Secretary James Baker, Global L.E.A.D. member Garrett Gravesen, BOTTOM ROW: Secretary Warren Christopher, Secretary Madeleine Albright, Secretary Henry Kissinger

(L)eadership:  Activating the passion and purpose within each student.

We have developed a curriculum to specifically enhance asset based thinking and ignite the strengths, talents, and possibilities within each student.  This is accomplished through engaging speakers, that fly in to each location along with articles that have been written specifically for this program.  During Leadership Week, the Global L.E.A.D. curriculum addresses the following areas of Leadership development.

Passion*Purpose*Vision*Values*Confidence*Resilience*Courage*Open-mindedness *Integrity*Ethics

In Cape Town, South Africa…The Global L.E.A.D. students heard from former University President Betty Siegel, who heads the Oxford Conclave on Global Ethics, designed to renew higher education’s commitment to the development of ethical leadership; Hall of Fame Football Coach Vince Dooley and his wife Barbara, as well as Ahmed Kathrada—a cellmate of former South African president Nelson Mandela, when both were imprisoned for advocating civil rights and opposing apartheid in the 1960’s.  It is our goal to expose these students to this curriculum and these speakers specifically within the context of Global L.E.A.D.  Collectively we seek to make each individual aware of who they are and what they want to achieve, along with activating their unique passions and purpose in life.

 

Global L.E.A.D. gives students a chance to create Vision for their Lives

 Scott’s Vision Statement“To live a compassionate life to its fullest potential; always helping those less fortunate and never losing sight of the greater good.” 1. I want to be known as a man who lived his life with a burning desire to pursue all boundaries, living without the fear of taking the road less traveled.2. I want to be the person you could always talk to, open to your opinions and personal views. You can count on me.3. I want to be a great husband to my wife, and a positive role-model for my kids.4. I want to use my talents to communicate and connect, helping others be the best they can be.5. I want to never forget where I come from and the people who have made me who I am today.6. I want to be able to give back, but be wise enough to know that even the smallest acts of love and compassion can change the life of an individual, and even change the world.

Jessica’s Vision Statement I want to be a person who is loving, giving, and who is known to share. A friend. I want to make a difference in other people’s lives. A mentor. I want to be charitable and successful enough to be so.  A philanthropist. I want to be self-reliant and trusted enough to be relied on. A mother-figure. I want to stand up for what is right. A defender of good. I want to be strong and independent enough to have a good life for myself and therefore be a role model to others. A trendsetter. I want to have enough to give, even if it’s something intangible. A counselor. I want to pay forward all of the great things that have been given to me. A patron.

Taylor’s Vision Statement I want to be a person who goes beyond physical and self-manifested boundaries, who travels the world spreading the notion of equality and perseverance. I want to be able to speak in front of thousands and listen to one. I want to be an example and an everlasting legacy of good works.

Andrew’s Vision Statement I need to be wise.  With experience comes wisdom, with learning comes experience, and with living comes learning.  So always remember to live.

(E)ducation:  Understanding truly happens outside the classroom.

The Global L.E.A.D. curriculum and philosophy truly exposes students to the realities of life outside of a textbook.  Education week comes in the form of the Global L.E.A.D. ‘School of Hard Knocks’; A case study that transplants students out of a classroom setting with chalkboards and comfortable chairs, and into the stark reality of  slums, townships, favelas, and living off $1 a day. During Education Week, students embark on a journey through “The Power of Living and the Power of Giving” that addresses the following areas of development.

Compassion *Empathy *Challenges that promote breakthrough solutions *Emotional intelligence  *Opportunities that provide for innovation *Globalization *The Power of Giving*Unconventional Living

*Credit: “Change the way you see everything”—Cramer & Wasiak

(A)dventure:  Life has become a bit too boring. We believe it should be an Adventure.

Too often life (schools, family, social norms) do to people what zoos do to animals.

They try to remove all risk, all danger, all struggle.  Deep down we long for more.  Sure the tamed part grows accustomed to the safety and security, but the tamed part longs for some danger, some challenge, and some adventure.  The predictability of everyday life no longer satisfies you.  The Global L.E.A.D. Adventure Week consists of creating a ‘Bucket List’ along with taking on activities that challenge students to stretch themselves beyond their limits. This sets our program apart.

“Sky diving impresses some people, Shark Cage Diving impresses us.” –Global L.E.A.D. Team

We encourage activities that stretch your imagination, push your limits and, ultimately, put a smile on your face.  Instrumental to this process is getting out of your typical comfort zone and challenging your boundaries.  Whether your definition of adventure means extreme sports, exploring the great outdoors, or simply trying something new during your time overseas, only you will know.  Our program will have Global L.E.A.D. adventure partners on the ground to facilitate your imagination, but ultimately the choice is up to you.

(D)iplomacy:  Service should be the cornerstone of life.  Once you feel it, you can
never un-feel it.

Global L.E.A.D. actively engages the local community through service learning projects.  It is our goal to work alongside those less fortunate in a thoughtful and sustainable way.  Our program has diplomacy partners in each country (non-profits and international NGO’s) that students work hand-in-hand with to make a difference.  Our goal is not to re-create the wheel, duplicate resources or create new non-profits; but rather empower those organizations already doing great work by facilitating opportunities for individuals looking to give back in a meaningful manner.

We hold the following ideals in highest regard

Commitment to the welfare of others *Curiosity *Cultural sensitivity *Mutual trust and respect *Opportunities for shared learning and new insights

“I learned what cannot be taught in a classroom, but what must be learned by living and serving – the importance of family, faith, hope, and love.”—Amanda Accarino

“They understand the treasure of family, and no matter what, they understand that having each other is always enough. I wouldn’t trade my time volunteering in Sir Lowry’s Pass for anything because it changed my life and it changed the way I see other people”—Scott Sumner

*Credit: “Change the way you see everything”—Cramer & Wasiak

Don’t just Go…L.E.A.D

Ultimately, the Global L.E.A.D. Program will augment any international experience by providing a certification that will recognize this holistic approach to leadership, education, exposure to new parts of one’s self, and service.  This opportunity will empower every university student to learn and lead on a global stage.