UA Students Learning to Take Leadership to Next Level

Media advisory: Students are working on their projects and are available for interviews/photos. The group from Human Development and Family Studies is meeting at 2 p.m. today. Their project looks at how a child’s upbringing plays a role in his or her development from childhood to teenager. Reporters are asked to contact Kim Eaton, UA Media Relations, at 808/640-5912, if they wish to arrange interviews.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — A handful of exceptional University of Alabama students with a thirst for knowledge have an opportunity to put their skills to the test during the annual Crenshaw Leadership Academy.

Established in 2005 by the College of Human Environmental Sciences, the leadership academy is an annual retreat workshop for faculty-selected, upper level majors in human environmental sciences.

Working through simulations, readings, discussions, seminars and team activities, the students learn to think creatively, communicate effectively, motivate and influence others, act ethically, use competent business and social etiquette skills and make constructive community-oriented decisions.

“We’re looking for students who are always there, always involved with student organizations and always want to help faculty,” said Courtney McGahey, a UA assistant professor in consumer sciences. “They want to know more; those students that go the next mile.”

Each department is responsible for selecting three students, for a total of 15. Prior to the event, students are provided a topic to research; this year’s topic is sustainability. Each group must find a research angle that fits their department/major. Those projects are then presented at the workshop. Upon completion of the program, each student will receive a leadership certificate.

“It is an honor to be a Crenshaw leader,” McGahey said. “We want the students to really understand they are exceptional. Out of the hundreds of students in their department, they were chosen. Also, by bringing in the various speakers to the retreat, the students will learn how to take their leadership to the next level.”