LeaderShape

In partnership with the Allstate Foundation, the American Indian College Fund is pleased to offer students currently attending eligible tribal colleges and universities the opportunity to attend the LeaderShape Summer Institute in Champaign, Illinois.  Students will have the option of attending one of two sessions on June 19-24 or July 31- August 5, 2007. 

The LeaderShape Institute is one of the country's premier leadership immersion institutes.  This six-day program will take students on a journey of non-stop self-discovery, emphasizing learning from practical experiences.   Tribal College students have attended in the past, and have noted nothing but positive experiences from the summer institute.        

Students are eligible to apply if they:

  • Are American Indian, Alaska Native or Hawaii Native with proof of enrollment or descendancy
  • Are enrolled full-time in a degree program at an one of the nation's 32 tribal college and universities
  • Have at least a 3.0 grade point average
  • Demonstrate leadership and commitment to their college and community
  • Demonstrated academic achievement

The application deadline for LeaderShape is April 11, 2008. If you are interested in applying click here.

The selected students will have all expenses paid for by the American Indian College Fund.  If you have any questions about the application process please contact Ruben Hernandez at rhernandez@collegefund.org or 1-800-776-FUND (3863).

Please send application with all required materials to:

American Indian College Fund
Attn: Ruben Hernandez
8333 Greenwood Blvd.
Denver, CO 80221

LeaderShape Activities:

DAY 1: "Building Community"
You'll begin to explore what leadership means and discuss its core components. You'll meet the other participants in the "Learning Community," and you'll also join 8-12 other young adults in a group called the "Family Cluster." As your primary reference group, the Family Cluster will offer you feedback, support, and help you develop and refine your vision for the future.

DAY 2: "The Value of One, The Power of All"
You'll begin the second day in an experiential team-building activity. By working your way through a series of initiatives and discussions, you'll discover how relationships, trust, and problem solving can be enhanced in a supportive group setting.  Next you'll add another dimension to your self-awareness by completing a behavioral style inventory. From that information, you'll have an opportunity to set several personal goals for the week and share those with members of your Family Cluster. You'll also participate in exercises which explore the concept of "inclusive leadership" and how to create communities which value respect, openness, and diverse opinions.

DAY 3: "Challenging What Is, Looking to What Could Be"
During this exciting day, you'll begin work developing your own vision for the future which defines a bold change for your community, group, cause, or organization back home.  The evening will conclude with a Guest Leader Forum and Reception and will give you an opportunity to interact with significant leaders in business, education, and many different professions.

DAY 4: "Bringing Vision to Reality"
Three key requirements will be discussed (relationships, stretch goals, and action steps) which move a vision forward. In addition, the issue of power will be explored in a dynamic group simulation exercise.

DAY 5: "Living and Leading with Integrity"
The concept of "integrity" is a challenging one, but central to LeaderShape 's philosophy of lifelong leadership development. You will discuss how core ethical values, thoughtful decisions, and courage all play critical roles in sustaining integrity and fostering trust and respect. During the afternoon, you'll have open time to discuss "burning issues" before you prepare for a creative Family Cluster LeaderShape Revue in the evening.

DAY 6: "Staying in Action"
On this final day, you'll prepare to return home and face your responsibilities as a LeaderShape graduate who practices the discipline of "leading with integrity." You'll learn what it means to be a part of the nationwide LeaderShape community - a network of mutual encouragement and support. A Learning Community commencement ceremony concludes the week.

For additional information about the LeaderShape program visit http://www.leadershape.org.