LEAP encourages undergraduate students to explore the different elements of leadership and offers them practical tools which will enable them to confidently take on leadership roles in many areas of their lives. Through experiential learning techniques, LEAP participants develop an understanding of different leadership styles and their impact on groups, develop more self-awareness about their personal leadership styles, and learn effective group facilitation skills. LEAP seeks to inspire and build a strong community of student allies who help one another as leaders and who work to create a healthier community on campus and in the greater world.
LEAP cultivates a learning environment where students gain in self-confidence and in their understanding of their personal strengths, talents, and life wisdom. They learn to be in touch with the guidance of their inner voice regarding the change they would like to create in the world. LEAP helps them strengthen their self direction to carry out that vision.
As a result of participating in LEAP, students gain greater internal resiliency in dealing with organizational challenges and become more effective group facilitators. They broaden their awareness of cultural diversity and the ways in which culture affects group development. LEAP participants commit to incorporating their sensitivity to cultural diversity in their behavior as leaders and group members.
On a campus-wide basis, LEAP nurtures lasting collaborative relationships among student leaders, and between students, staff, and community leaders.