In February, 60 students will spend Reading Week honing their leadership skills at the York-sponsored LeaderShape Institute at Geneva Park in Orillia.
York’s Centre for Student Community & Leadership Development (SCLD ) has invited colleges, faculties and units to name and sponsor emerging student leaders in first, second and third year for the workshop. But any students with leadership experience and aspirations are also encouraged to apply. The deadline is Jan. 31.
“York University is providing students with leadership skills they can use to create a better future for themselves and their communities,” says Ross McMillan, 
the centre’s assistant director, student community.
Left: Student leaders at a one-day leadership workshop last February
This is the second time York has partnered with the non-profit LeaderShape Institute to conduct the six-day workshop. The first was in 2008. (See YFile Dec. 7, 2007)
Students will break into 10-person clusters and for six intense days participate in discussions, workshops and exercises. The curriculum emphasizes concepts such as “building community”, “the value of one, the power of all”, “challenging what is and looking to what could be”, “bringing vision to reality” and “living and leading with integrity”.
Throughout the week, each student will work to define a personal vision for changing or contributing to the world in a positive way, and developing a “breakthrough blueprint” that details a plan for achieving that vision.
“Students come back more invigorated with a sense of purpose and drive to make a difference in the 
world, and this will impact their time and experience as a student,” says McMillan.
Right: Students at a one-day leadership workshop last February
For more information about this program, contact SCLD at leaders@yorku.ca. To apply, click here.
LeaderShape 2011 is being sponsored by York’s Career Centre, Centre for Human Rights, Faculty of Health, President’s Office, Aboriginal Services, Office for Student Rights & Responsibilities, College Council and Masters’ Offices, Vice-President Students and York Alumni.