The Lenfest Leadership Program is an integral part of Williamson College of the Trades’ curriculum. Guided by workforce readiness competencies, students develop and hone their leadership skills through a variety of activities embedded across their three-year program of study. Central to the leadership program are three required experiential learning events, one each year. Williamson students begin their leadership journey at First Year Experience (FYE), a four-day event that includes an introduction to Williamson’s core values, student diversity workshops, teamwork and self-confidence exercises, and community service. At the end of the second year, students participate in the Junior Leadership Expedition (JLE), a multi-day, wilderness trip during which they sharpen leadership and teamworking skills. Finally, at the end of their program, during the Senior Capstone Experience (SCE), seniors reflect on their growth in leadership, paving the way to a successful transition to the workplace.
Leadership and Character Education Goals
Leadership Education - To fulfill the mission of preparing young men to be leaders, the college prioritizes leadership education, with the goal of developing and enhancing students’ leadership potential.
Character Education - To fulfill the mission of preparing young men to be respected, the college prioritizes character education, with the goal of developing that character of its students according to the Christian tradition, as exemplified in the school’s core values.
Leadership and Character Education Objectives
Leadership Education
- Drawing on academic and experiential learning opportunities, produce graduates with leadership skills to ethically influence others toward the achievement of a collaborative goal.
Character Education
- To develop a foundation for ethical decision-making and behavior, drawing on principles of faith and personal integrity.
- To promote a sense of personal responsibility by fostering the positive habits of industry, as seen in a commitment to a strong work ethic and high standards.
- To promote a sense of responsibility to society by fostering an appreciation for others and a commitment to service.
- Encourage holistic personal growth and identity development throughout the program in alignment with the college’s core values, concepts of effective citizenship, and social justice.
Leadership and Character Education Outcomes
Leadership Education
- Demonstrate and apply concepts of followership within a team dynamic.
- Demonstrate an increasing skill to effectively work alongside and lead peers towards common goals.
- Demonstrate the ability to listen and respect the viewpoints of others.
- Describe and demonstrate leadership skills and concepts.
- Assess situations and modify leadership approach depending on the objective, the task, and the team.
- Display critical thinking and analytical skills in leading others towards a defined goal.
Character Education
- Exhibit an understanding of the importance of Williamson’s core values to their lives.
- Exhibit an increasing sense of diversity awareness.
- Exhibit an understanding of humanity that respects and values the dignity, worth, and distinct qualities of all individuals.
- Demonstrate positive intrapersonal values and behaviors, such as integrity, responsibility, diligence, self-control, and a positive attitude.
- Demonstrate positive interpersonal values and behaviors, such as respect, fairness, consideration, cooperation, stewardship of resources, civic mindedness, and an eagerness to help others.
- Understand the impact of community service towards effective citizenship and social responsibility.