I recently had a great opportunity to meet with the students who are the leaders and designers of our Leader Development Program. As a result of that meeting I though it important to share with you some information about the program, because these students believe there is a lack of understanding in our entire University community about this very important program. This program received very great praise in our recent NEASC Accreditation report.

Norwich University has recently begun to implement a new Leadership Development Program for all students. This program is designed to help students get the most from their Norwich experience. It gives you, the student, the opportunity to learn the most important skills and lessons of leadership, with the hands on experience that you get through your clubs, sports, community service and other activities. The LDP requires no extra work from the students who participate, rather it is a way for you to get formal recognition for the many things that you already do. By simply logging on to the system and inserting your name and the clubs, sports, or other activities in which you are active, you will be fulfilling your commitment to the LDP.

However, the LDP offers more than just experience and lessons. At the end of your career here at Norwich, you will not only receive your degree but also a leadership portfolio, including a leadership transcript which documents the different activities you participated in, what you did, and how well you did it. This transcript will put you over the top and above your competitors in the job market or in graduate school. Your leadership abilities, combined with the transcript and your degree, will help you get noticed and be more successful on whatever road you decide to take after graduation.

Although the LDP is only in the beginning stages, we are already seeing a great deal of success. The Norwich University Student Nurse's Association has been very successful this year in linking into the Leadership Development Program. With the Nursing faculty championing their efforts, they have seen growing numbers in their membership, as well as support for all activities they participate in each semester. This joint effort allows underclassmen to assume leadership roles and to actively participate in events, which not only benefit the group but the university as a whole. Clearly the Leadership Development Program and the Norwich University Student Nurse's Association has found a common bond in bringing forth future leaders.

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