LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Through the involvement in our leadership programs, students will understand and develop in the areas of cultural competence, servant leadership, social responsibility, a better understanding of self and compassion to others.

 

Villanova Leadership Program

The Villanova Leadership Program (VLP) is free and open to all Villanova students who are looking to complement their ongoing leadership journey. Students that attend four of the six modules will receive a Certificate of Leadership and are invited to attend a leadership dinner.

A group of students attends a Villanova Leadership Program awards dinner

The Villanova Leadership Program has three core pillars:

I. Shining a light on prominent leadership theories

II. Sharing useful leadership tips and tricks that students can apply immediately

III. Providing opportunities to network with other students and campus leaders

 

Students attend a Villanova Leadership Program event

Spring 2025 registration will open on December 30, 2024. For more information, please email Brittany Davis

 

Villanova Leadership Program participants receive certificates of completion

Dates are subject to change. All programs run from 3-4:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted.  

Friday, January 31: Pre-Module Networking/Team Building
Location: Villanova Challenge Course

Friday, February 7: What Makes a Leader
Location: TBD

Friday, February 14: Interpersonal Intelligence & Relationship Building 
Location: TBD

Friday, February 21: Effective Communication
Location: TBD

Friday, March 14: Graduate Assistant Leadership Panel
Location: TBD

Friday, March 21: Ethical Leadership
Location: TBD

Friday, March 28: VLP Overview & Final Jeopardy
Location: TBD

Friday, April 4: VLP Graduation Ceremony & Dinner
Location: TBD

*6 p.m. start time

Villanova students attend a Villanova Leadership Program event

 

 

The Rev. John Stack, OSA Leadership Series

The Office of Student Involvement offers a Leadership lecture on an annual basis designed to inspire and bring the campus community together. This year marks the 13th year of the Rev. John Stack OSA Leadership Series!

2024: Kerry Alys Robinson, President and CEO, Catholic Charities USA

2023: Linda Hancock, Health Professional, FNP, PhD

2022: Ibtihaj Muhammad, US Olympian, Activist 

2020: Travis Mills, Retired US Staff Sergeant, Wounded Warrior

2019: Tarana Burke, Me Too Movement Founder

2018: Dr. Kerry Cronin, Professor, Boston College

2017: Carli Lloyd, Olympian and US Women's National Team Captain

2016: Dr. Darrell Ford, Head of School, William Penn Charter School

2015: Joseph Clancy, Director of the Secret Service

2014: Hawa Abdallah Mohammed Salih, Sudanese activist

2013: The Honorable Cory Booker, Mayor of Newark, New Jersey

2012: Somaly Mam, Cambodian Human Rights Activist

2011: Bob Woodward, Associate Editor of the Washington Post

 

 

VILLANOVA
CHALLENGE COURSE

Group photo of students at the Villanova Challenge Course

The Villanova Challenge Course is challenging, demanding and fun! Groups must work together to accomplish physically and mentally challenging tasks. After each activity, facilitators process and breakdowns the elements that contributed to the success of the group. Discussion will also reveal obstacles that caused frustration and problems along the way. The course is designed for participants ages 18+.

CHECK US OUT ON YOUTUBE!

The Villanova Challenge Course and Low Ropes Course is challenging, demanding and fun! Groups must work together to accomplish physically and mentally challenging tasks. After each activity, facilitators process and breakdowns the elements that contributed to the success of the group.  Discussion will also reveal obstacles that caused frustration and problems along the way.

Through taking risks, participants gain new personal and interpersonal skills and insights - the basis for growth and change. Activities are safe, stimulating, and occur in an atmosphere of support and caring. Results can be rapid and profound.

The Villanova Challenge Course is designed for participants ages 18 and up.

 

Students pose for a photo after completing the Challenge Course
Students from the College of Engineering's Innovate Program conquer the Villanova Challenge Course wall

Program Benefits

Outdoor challenge programs are unprecedented in their success in providing activities focused on teamwork and mutual support.

  • Build team skills in cooperation
  • Raise appreciation and respect for differences within the group
  • Develop trust and group problem-solving skills
  • Allow for the practice of new skills, with feedback
  • Recreate a work setting in a supportive environment
  • Develop respect for others' opinions in discussions
  • Raise self-esteem and confidence
  • Utilize resources appropriately and efficiently
  • Uncover issues that may be stumbling blocks for the group as well as best practices for success

Program Design

Our professional staff will custom design your training program so that it meets your specific goals and objectives. We can tailor a challenge program to:

  • develop leadership skills
  • build a sense of team
  • increase interpersonal awareness
  • focus on problem-solving skills
  • target particular issues
  • bring out positive qualities
  • work with existing or new teams
  • provide pure fun and enjoyment of vigorous outdoor activity

Program Elements

The VCC offers a variety of physically and mentally demanding challenges.  Many activities can also be done indoors!  These activities are perfect for groups looking to achieve a common goal.

All sessions are customized for your group!

Program Length

The professional staff can custom design a program to fit your time needs. Generally, a minimum 2-3 hour program is recommended.  Villanova Students receive a free 2-hour session based on availability.  Full-day, half-day, and multi-day programs are all available.

Group Size

In order to reap the benefits of the program, it is recommended to have a group size of at least 8 participants. 

Reservations and Fees

Rates are per session. We do extend a non-profit discount based on need.

For more information or to book a session, email Brittany Davis, Graduate Assistant for Leadership Programs, at bdavis@villanova.edu

Villanova affiliated or not, anyone with a team is welcome! Let us know a little about you and your team and we'll book you a session.

 


Office of Student Involvement
102 Dougherty Hall

Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.