Leadership CofC

Accepting applications until the end of the fall semester for the 2022-2023 cohort. Click here to apply.

Leadership CofC provides an extensive learning opportunity for a limited number of juniors and seniors. This opportunity brings students in contact with community leaders and issues, and puts an emphasis on dynamic leadership qualities that are often gained solely through experience. Students will engage in networking and will have the chance to participate in discussion and activities that will include local businesses, government figures, and service organizations. The group also creates an environment where potential internships or employment can be explored.

Applicants are selected through an application and group interview process each September. Selected students meet at least once a month throughout the academic year. They receive all-expense-paid opportunities to learn and improve their skills in group dynamics and communication. They also have the opportunity to get to know fellow group members and local leaders.

Learning Outcomes:

  • To strengthen interpersonal competence through networking with members of the community and other influential and involved students.
  • To build intrapersonal professional development, practice professionalism, and increase self-confidence in one's own leadership skills.
  • To utilize critical thinking while obtaining knowledge and understanding of diverse leadership practices.

Interested?  See this sample schedule below. Programs change annually. 

Sample Schedule

Program 1: Presenting Your Best Self: Business Etiquette with an Etiquette Professional.
     
September. Downtown restaurant. 5:45-8:30 p.m.
     Learn about proper business etiquette techniques in reception and dinner venues. Ask questions about issues and concerns.

Program 2: The Ports Authority in Charleston: Working for a World-wide Entity.
      October. 3:55 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Bus Tour; 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. event;
      Charleston Visitors Center with guided bus tour of Wando Terminal prior to reception and panel discussion. 
      Food provided by Duvall’s Catering.

Fall Leadership Conference (optional, but strongly encouraged)
      November. CofC campus. 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.   

Program 3: The Real World Path to Leadership Success with CofC Alumni.
      November. On-campus. 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. 
      Panel discussion with reception.

Program 4: Conservation and Preservation: Partnerships to Protect and Enhance the Community.
      January. Local venue. Local catering. 5:45- 8:30 p.m.
      Meet with representatives from various community offices that support community activism and oversight.

Program 5: Tech Companies: Find your Opportunity in this Environment.
      February. On campus. Campus catering. 6:00-8:30 p.m.  
      Panel discussion and reception with upper division leadership. 

Program 6: An evening with Local Community-wide Leadership.
     March. Local restaurant. 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. 
     Panel discussion and dinner with local government leaders.

Program 7: LCofC Final Banquet with with keynote and remarks from four select students in the program.
      April. 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Downtown restaurant. 
      Receive padfolio, certificate and pen with a final chance to visit with attending past panelists and peers.