USF Service Learning Leadership Academy [09/11/2006]

New program offers training in leadership skills combined with community service projects for students, professionals, business people and community members. Apply by September 22.

Service learning courses, a style of teaching that combines a traditional classroom setting with service in the community, have been offered at the University of South Florida for many years. Now that concept has been taken to a whole new level with the creation of the new USF Service Learning Leadership Academy.

Not just for students, the USF Service Learning Leadership Academy is designed to bring together students, community members, corporate partners and alumni to receive leadership training and build connections within the Tampa Bay community. The program is free to participants and students may earn up to four credit hours.

The new program is co-sponsored by the USF Collaborative for Children, Families and Communities and Volunteer USF, with support from Florida Campus Compact, a statewide organization dedicated to strengthening academics and civic engagement through campus-community partnerships.

“Leadership is a skill that can bring about tangible results when used properly,” USF Collaborative Director Judi Jetson. “Participants in the Academy will not only gain leadership skills, but also learn how to make a difference in the community and build long-term relationships with other participants.”

The USF Service Learning Leadership Academy is composed of two elements, monthly forums and community-based action projects. Led by USF faculty and community experts, the monthly forums will focus on leadership skills such as consensus building, project management, networking and team problem solving.

Participants will also take part in year-long community based team projects proposed by Hillsborough County nonprofit organizations, USF departments and government organizations.

“The exciting thing about this program is that we intend to make a difference in the community by participating in projects with outcomes that people can point to as being significant, observable and real,” says Amy Simon, Coordinator of Volunteer USF.

For more information or to download an application, click here to visit the USF Service Learning Leadership Academy web site. Applications are also available from the offices of the USF Collaborative for Children, Families and Communities and Volunteer USF, or by contacting Jason Miller at 813-974-2059 or jmiller@usfcollab.usf.edu.

Applications for the inaugural class of the Service Learning Leadership Academy are due by September 22. The first class begins October 19, 2006, and runs through April 2007. Classes are held in the evening, from 6-9 p.m.