On Feb. 16, SDSU will host its fourth annual Leadership Summit from 8 a.m. to 4, in the Parma Payne Goodall Alumni Center p.m. The event is a call to action that is intended to motivate individuals to become leaders. The workshop will provide attendees with the essential knowledge and tools needed to effectively and positively impact society by exercising leadership skills.
The Leadership Summit is a one-day conference that provides access to several influential leaders who share their personal experiences. Other aspects include interactive breakout sessions that give everyone an opportunity to participate.
Associate Vice President for Campus Life Timothy Quinnan founded the SDSU Leadership Summit in 2010. He said those who come to the event can expect to be inspired, acquire some new tools and learn how to make an impact.
“In the past we’ve focused on more theoretical, abstract and philosophical issues, but this year we’re exploring the pragmatic—making it very action-orientated,” Quinnan said.
Quinnan added the Leadership Summit, which is comprised of a wide range of presenters, offers a singular opportunity for individuals to gain insight, tools and inspiration that they would otherwise not have the opportunity to obtain.
Students played a role in the planning committee and suggested the idea for the theme of the event, “Why Wait? Lead Now!” Additionally, students of various ages will assist in the interactive breakout sessions, demonstrating leadership qualities they have learned throughout the years.
SDSU senior Nicollette Cardwell, who attended the Summit last year, said she especially recommends it for freshmen and sophomores.
“It’s great for students who don’t see themselves as leaders because they will gain the confidence to believe it is something they can become,” Cardwell said.
Cardwell added she particularly liked the way last year’s presenters talked about topics that are often overlooked in the classroom.
“My favorite thing from last year’s event was Dr. Quinnan’s discussion about spirituality,” Cardwell said. “Many people are hesitant to explore spirituality, but he presented it in a way that makes people really listen.”
The event directors said they are exceptionally excited about this year’s keynote speakers, which include KGTV co-anchor Kaushal Patel and SDSU alumnus Scott Manning. Patel, former CNN International anchor, currently co-anchors at KGTV, San Diego’s ABC affiliate Channel 10 news station. She has much experience in the field of broadcast journalism and seeks to help people understand the value of information as it critically forms decision-making.
Manning, an SDSU alumnus who has led large corporations in 17 different counties, is expected to give insight on leadership in a global environment and how people must be modified to fit one’s surrounding culture.
“What I really like about this event is it’s going to be a really great opportunity for students to mingle with accomplished people in the fields of education, international and American business and broadcast journalism in a personal and informal setting,” Quinnan said.
While the Leadership Summit is opened to students, faculty and staff, spots are limited and it sold out early for last year’s event, according to the Facebook page. Registration is available online through the SDSU website or by calling the Student Life and Leadership office at 619-594-5221.
