Student Super Leaders

Southern Leadership Academy

Did you know?

• 77.2% of employers want to see leadership skills on a resume
• 95% of employers believe leadership skills should be developed while in college

In 2017, the Super Leader Program became the Southern Leadership Academy. The Southern Leadership Academy is a joint effort between Missouri Southern State University and the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Network to identify, cultivate and motivate future community leaders currently enrolled in college. This informative and thought provoking program introduces participants to the community and career opportunities. In addition, Southern Leadership Academy provides a strategic curriculum to enhance participants' leadership skills. Anyone who has a genuine interest in community leadership and wants to broaden their scope of knowledge beyond their current level is encouraged to apply to the Southern Leadership Academy.

By the end of the Southern Leadership Academy, participants will:

• Cultivate and develop leadership skills
• Better understand the community
• See Joplin in terms of the "big picture"
• Gain valuable networking contacts
• Learn about career opportunities in the community

Each session is different and designed to expose participants to all aspects of the day's topic. The schedule shows the commitment required and it is important to understand the expectation of attendance at all sessions. If you have a conflict with session dates please consider waiting to apply until next semester.

2019 Spring Program *Applications Due Wednesday,January 23, 2019

• Friday, February 1, 1 - 6 pm Leadership Development, Part 1
• Saturday, February 2, 10 am - 4 pm Leadership Development, Part 2
• Friday, February 15, 1 - 6 pm Marketing, Media, and Advertising
• Friday, March 1, 1 - 6 pm Small Business and Entrepreneurship
• Friday, March 15, 1 - 6 pm Non-Profit and Volunteerism
• Friday, March 29, 1 - 6 pm Manufacturing and Logistics
• Friday, April 12, 1 - 6 pm Healthcare Industry
• Friday, April 26, 1 - 6 pm Finance and Civic Involvement
• Friday, May 3, 1 - 5 pm Leadership Development, Part 3
• Friday, May 3, 6 - 7 pm Induction Ceremony

Program Expectations

• Attend all scheduled sessions
• Meet with a counselor for a resume review appointment
• Meet with director for leadership coaching appointment
• Attend one Career Services event throughout the semester
• Participate in one YPN Gives Back event
• Minimum 2.5 GPA
• Completed 30 or more credit hours
• Enrolled in at least 6 hours for the semester

The Selection Process

Program participation is limited to 11-15 students per semester, depending on program funding. Students must submit a completed application and payment of $25 or essay to be considered for the program. Application costs will be refunded to candidates not selected. In addition to reviewing each individual's qualifications, the committee strives for a broad spectrum of experience, background and majors.

• Application Form

Southern Leadership Academy selection is based on the following individual criteria:

• Completed application and $25 payment *Waivers are available to cover the application cost.
• Personal Interview
• Involvement or desire to become involved on-campus or in the community
• Demonstrated ability and desire to assume greater community and campus leadership responsibility
• A clear willingness to make a commitment to the demands of the program

Application Cost Waiver

To apply for an application cost waiver:

• Write a one page maximum essay on why you would like to participate in the Southern Leadership Academy
• How it could benefit you
• Your commitment to the program and its requirements

Attach the essay with your application in lieu of the application cost and bring it to the Career Service Office on the third floor of Hearnes Hall.

Check out what our past graduates had to say about the former Super Leaders Program:

• Spring 2019 Southern Leadership Academy Video
• Fall 2018 Southern Leadership Academy Video
• Spring 2018 Southern Leadership Academy Video
• Fall 2017 Southern Leadership Academy Video
• Spring 2017 Superleaders Video
• Fall 2016 Super Leaders Video
• Spring 2016 Super Leaders Video
• Fall 2015 Super Leaders Video
• Spring 2015 Super Leaders Video
• Fall 2014 Super Leaders Video
• Spring 2014 Super Leaders Video
• Fall 2013 Super Leaders Video

Meet our current and past participants!

Questions?

For more information about the Southern Leadership Academy:

Phone: 417-625-9343 or
Email: careerservices@mssu.edu