Students had the opportunity to gain leadership tips before spring break from one of Bradley’s most prominent leaders, who shared some her secrets to success.
University President Joanne Glasser was hosted as a speaker by the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), an organization that plans leadership and scholarship opportunities for student members.
The organization, with approximately 700 members, has only been on campus for three years. Glasser said the students involved are already making great strides in leadership.
“Our students on the Hilltop are dedicated,” Glasser said. “This group is not only successful in leading, but also in helping others achieve their goals along the way.”
The introduction of the president’s speech focused on her life and her mother’s emphasis on recognizing that her family was blessed. Glasser said she began volunteering at an early age, which helped her developed the core values which she utilizes today.
One of the key components to the “Bradley experience,” Glasser said, is leadership. Founder Lydia Moss Bradley’s dedication to creating a university paved the way for student leaders today, she said.
“The fact that President Glasser can develop a speech around student leaders’ lives really makes her main points relevant,” freshman business management and administration major Mitchell Kudell said. “I feel like she is speaking directly to us as though she understands the exact kind of advice we’re looking for.”
Some of that advice provided was centered around her experience as a leader. Glasser’s three steps included carefully crafting a vision, using authority honestly and to remain committed to goals.
“Leadership is people choosing not to follow when they have the choice to go in the opposite direction,” Glasser said.
The speech was followed by a question and answer session, where students asked a variety of questions from what advice she would give her younger self to how she handles being a role model.
Sophomore economics major Dana Olsen said she enjoyed the question and answer session.
“It spoke to the heart because it was something [Glasser] was not prepared for and you could tell she really meant what she was saying,” Olsen said.
Glasser summarized her speech by encouraging students to become leaders on campus.
“No matter the size or the mission it is important to get others involved and share a vision,” she said.
