Although life experiences combined with a strong undergraduate education play a critical role in leadership development, specialized educational environments are necessary to enhance leadership abilities. Though the cornerstone of this community is its academic component, being a Leadership Studies student entails more than simply attending classes. An effective learning community models the values that it teaches - collaboration, respect for all, integrity, and service of a common purpose. Within this environment, students have the opportunity to interact with and learn from their peers as well as faculty. Basic Assumptions Service to the common good is the goal of leadership.
Leadership is needed at the personal, organizational, community, state, national, and global levels.
Leadership is a process and is not defined simply by position or authority. Leadership Studies is an academic discipline which can be taught and learned. Leadership Studies is interdisciplinary in nature and unites theory and practice. Leadership Studies will benefit a broad spectrum of undergraduate students. Collaboration is the primary method of teaching and developing leadership.