For over a decade, Wright State University has hosted Take Flight, a leadership retreat program during the summer that offers students the chance to build new skills and gain experience in leadership.
“Student leaders from across campus come together to learn about different leadership skills and concepts from one of three rotating leadership texts that serve as our curriculum foundation,” said Jeremy Keller, program manager for Student Involvement and Leadership.
With past retreats held at places like Camp Kern, Camp Joy and Wilderness Ridge, participants get to experience a variety of activities and enlightening adventures.
“Depending on location, students and facilitators are also able to participate in leadership challenge activities, including things like zip lining, low and high ropes courses, and personal growth reflections,” said Keller.
Open to all students through an application process, with a limit of 50-55 participants, the Take Flight program has a tremendous impact on the university.
“The students that come back from Take Flight have a renewed energy to make change on campus. Not only do they have more skills to assist their organizations, but they are motivated to spread their influence and impact to more than just what they are involved in,” said Keller.
With the power to bring together student organizations from all over campus, Take Flight has become a beloved tradition among its members and participants.
“[Take Flight] has increased collaboration across different organizations that may not have collaborated before [and] has helped with diversity and inclusion,” said Student Involvement and Leadership Program Director Gina Keucher.
Participants of the retreat have the opportunity to put their minds together and create ideas to possibly improve Wright State for future generations to come.
“One group focused on an initiative focused on helping fellow Raiders by allowing students to donate meal swipes to the Friendship Food Pantry on campus. Another group looked at having more sustainability on campus, looking at recycling options and getting reusable cups/straws with Dining Services,” said Keller.
During Take Flight retreats, Keller admires the connections that student leaders and organizations make.
“[I love] being able to see the growth in the students from day one to the end, and even once we are back to WSU. Seeing them take leadership concepts, reframe their own leadership style and then being able to connect with their leadership purpose is probably one of the most rewarding moments that I can have as a professional,” said Keller.
Students leave the retreat with broader insight and newfound friends.
“My favorite part of the retreat was meeting other Wright State Students from all walks of life,” said Milo Simpson, geography major and recent Take Flight attendee. “I was truly amazed at the strength and passion of the leaders across our campus.”
