Stackman gives the lead

Ever wanted to know how to avoid being sued? How about how to save your campus organization money when ordering catering?

This semester, the Office of Student Life is presenting a new series of mini-workshops called "Take The Lead." These workshops will combine leadership skills with an assortment of activities.

Bill Stackman, Associate Dean of Students, has strong visions for the series. "We've already received responses from students who are excited to participate in the program. Many students have signed up for multiple sessions."

The series, which was developed in a meeting last spring with the Student Union Leadership Committee, is a first for Oberlin. The committee is made up of students and faculty. Their aim was to develop a mission, as well as set goals and objectives, that would motivate students to develop a variety of leadership skills.

Workshops are being offered by a diverse group of administrators with an equally diverse selection of topics. Presenters were chosen from nominations from their colleagues.

Stackman adds, "We sent letters to the nominees and received twice as many responses than we'd expected."

The workshops are being offered during lunch and dinner. This is an attempt to avoid conflicts that students may have with classes and to work around the presenters schedules as well.

"I believe that these workshops will help to further develop the relationship between faculty, staff and students," said Stackman.

There are already plans for more workshops for future semesters. There were several members of the faculty that were excited about the program, but simply could not fit them into their schedules. However, they are prepared to participate in the future.

"I am ecstatic about the responses. I'm grateful to the many faculty and staff that are so willing to give up their extra time to help students," said Stackman.