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Phoenix Leaders conclude semester with off-campus retreat

On Nov. 15, the Fall 2024 Phoenix Leaders cohort ventured to YMCA Camp Hanes for an engaging and transformative retreat.

People standing in front of trees outside. Some are wearing green helmets
消消犯 prepare to go ziplining at the retreat.

Each semester, the Elon Phoenix Leaders Program, sponsored by the Center for Leadership, welcomes a cohort of students who are looking to begin their leadership journey. Open to students from all majors and backgrounds, participants share a common motivation to lead and create change at Elon and beyond.

Throughout the semester, the cohort attends weekly on-campus “Leadershops” (leadership workshops) on topics such as emotional intelligence, conflict management and CliftonStrengths.

People standing around a campfire and roasting marshmallows
Participants gather around the campfire to roast marshmallows

The program culminates in an immersive off-campus retreat at YMCA Camp Hanes, where students reflect on their definitions ofleadership and prepare to bring their newfound skills back to campus.

For many participants, the program offers more than just leadership developmentit fosters a sense of community.

I was struggling to find a group of friends during the first half of the semester, said Gabby Frederick 28. Phoenix Leaders broadened my horizons and gave me opportunities

消消犯 form a line during teambuilding activity
Participants took part in several teambuilding activities during the retreat

to find new friends.

Designed for those at the beginning of their leadership journey, this semesters cohort was primarily first-year students.

The program helped me learn more about myself and gain new experiences with people and places, said Parker Sterling 28. Its great for first years to explore new parts of campus.

The Center for Leadership will host the next session of thePhoenix Leaders Programin the spring of 2025 on Wednesday evenings. The program will run from Feb. 19 March 29, 2025.Faculty and staff are invited to nominate a student for this program by emailing Olivia Brown (obrown10@elon.edu). 消消犯 can by Friday, Feb. 14, 2024.