The Association of College Union International’s (ACUI) annual Institute for Leadership Education and Development (I-LEAD) was held at CSUSB’s Santos Manuel Student Union North from July 15-18. Over 40 college students nationwide attended the program to engage in ACUI community building and leadership development, which included engaging activities and lively discussions.

During the program, students examined the complexities of leadership in the real world and learned effective communication strategies and a variety of topics, such as best practices for exemplary leaders; the Social Action, Leadership, and Transformation Model (SALT Model); and Kitchner’s Moral Principles.

For four days, the students stayed on campus in the residence halls, where they got to know the campus community and explore CSUSB, including visiting the Murillo Family Observatory.

Students participated in engaging activities with their peers and program facilitators at I-LEAD.
Students participated in engaging activities with their peers and program facilitators at I-LEAD.

Anthony Roberson, associate director of the Santos Manuel Student Union Operations, was selected as a facilitator for this year’s I-LEAD. Roberson, along with four Student Affairs professionals from colleges throughout the U.S., volunteered to lead the programming for the event.

As a facilitator, Roberson led activities and group discussions that corresponded to the curriculum, provided students opportunities for peer networking and resource sharing, and served as a positive role model. For Roberson’s small group sessions, the theme of superheroes was used to set the tone for the transformative experience, which was highlighted with room decorations and showcased on the students’ name badges.

Since 2008, Roberson has been a member of ACUI, and he was honored to take on this new role.

“It was a pleasure being a facilitator,” said Roberson. “If (ACUI) asked me to do it again, I’ll definitely jump at the opportunity. Even though it was long days and long nights, it was worth it.”

During the program, students learned effective communication strategies and a variety of topics, such as best practices for exemplary leaders.
During the program, students learned effective communication strategies and a variety of topics, such as best practices for exemplary leaders.

Roberson received positive feedback from the students about their life-changing experience.

“I’m glad I made an impact, but they made such an impact on me that I will never forget,” said Roberson about the students. “Just as much as they learned from me, I learned from them.”

In addition, Roberson worked diligently behind the scenes with the SMSU team, as well as collaborated with the Department of Housing and Residential Education, to prepare for I-LEAD.

The program provided students the opportunity to not only enhance their leadership skills but to develop lifelong friends and gain mentorship from dedicated student-centered professionals.

For more information about I-LEAD, visit the ACUI website.

About the Association of College Union International
The Association of College Union International supports college union and student engagement professionals in their service to students and the advancement of campus community. Consisting of thousands of campus community builders worldwide, the association provides an inclusive and welcoming environment to all those who choose to join.