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.
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.
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
Registration for Spring 2025 is now closed. Please join us for the VLP this upcoming Fall!
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
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!
2025: John Kruk, Philadelphia Phillies Alum and Broadcaster
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
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.
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!
Teambuilding Workshops
Let us bring the challenge to you! Facilitators will lead activities at a location of your choice on campus. Additional travel costs may be assessed. This opportunity is for internal Villanova University groups only.
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.
Additional Resources
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