LEADS

leadership education through academic 
development and service

Garner LEADS FAQs

How do I know if LEADS is the place for me?

LEADS is for any student who is interested in learning more about leadership and developing leadership skills.  You need not have leadership experience or hold a leadership position to be a valuable addition to the community.  All LEADS residents are expected to get involved in the community and have a positive impact within this dynamic living/learning environment.  

What is the LEADS Community Council?

This is a student group that plans fun programs and service projects for the floor.  All LEADS residents are encouraged to join the council.

 What leadership development opportunities are available for me in my hall?

LEADS students can get involved in numerous ways right in their own hall!  Some examples of groups within Garner and LEADS are: LEADS Community Council, Ma’at Black Student Union, Garner Hall Council, LEADS Librarian, LEADS Scrapbook Committee, floor and hall-wide events and workshops, and the LEADS Orientation Team.  In addition, the LEADS staff can also help you find opportunities throughout campus that best suit your needs.

 What is the connection between the LEADS program and the Illinois Leadership Center (ILC)?

LEADS and the ILC have a very strong partnership.  LEADS students who participate in Fall Orientation will complete Intersect, one of the four I-Programs (leadership development workshops) focusing on interpersonal skills and communication.  Most LEADS students then go on to complete the other three I-Programs. 

 A number of LEADS students are also enrolled in the ILC Leadership Certificate Program.  The LEADS program also offers one annual scholarship to Leadershape (a week long leadership development institute).

 LEADS students are also given the opportunity to participate in ILC student advising committee’s that help determine future programs and events.

 What community service opportunities are available?

The LEADS program is highly supportive of local community service programs/projects.  The LEADS Community Council will organize a monthly service program for the members of the floor to participate in.  In addition, the Office of Volunteer Programs will offer a monthly service program for LEADS students.

 LEADS has a community service challenge each semester, where all 3 wings complete in earning the most service hours.

 What are some of the resources available to LEADS residents?

We are a small community with great resources!  We are fortunate to have a Leadership Library which also serves as a great study space. We have a variety of leadership books and resources available for residents to check out from one of our student librarians. 

Our dedicated staff members (Resident Director, Program Coordinator, Multicultural Advocate, and 3 Resident Advisors) are also excellent resources for personal, academic, social, and leadership development guidance.

The LEADS programming office is actually located in the basement of Weston Hall where there are three classrooms, a resource area, and staff offices.  LEADS students also have access to all of these resources. 

Are there required courses?

The LEADS program offers a wide variety of elective and general education courses.  However there is no course requirement to participate in LEADS.  AGED260 (Introduction to Leadership Theory) is a very popular class with nearly 30% of all LEADS students enrolling each year.

 What programs and events typically take place?

Beginning with fall orientation, LEADS residents never have to worry about being bored or finding ways to get involved.   Our staff offers fun and interesting programs and events.  The LEADS Community Council also plans programs for the floor, not to mention all of the great opportunities available in Garner Hall and beyond!

 Past LEADS programs have included: open doors night, resume workshop, Multicultural events, Greek Life dialogue, Leadership Certificate information, Business Etiquette Dinner, “so you wanna be a RA/MA”, Study Aboard, Service Projects, seasoned leaders panel, “how to get involved,” Internship searches, Krannert Perform Arts Center performances, spa night, Homecoming BBQ, Paintball, teambuilding workshops, and much much more!

 How do I sign up for a LEADS course?

A complete list of LEADS courses has been mailed to all LEADS students and is also available on our website.

 You can sign up for a LEADS course like any other course.  Please remember to inform your academic advisor that you are a member of the LEADS community so that you can see if these classes fit your schedule. 

Are there any requirements to live on the LEADS floor?

While participation in events, the LEADS Community Council, and courses is strongly encouraged, the only requirement for living on the floor is that LEADS residents (both new and returning) sign the Community Standards Contract.  A copy of this contract can be found on the LEADS website and will be mailed to all residents in early August.  All LEADS residents also pay an additional fee of $120/year.

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