Excellence in Leadership Initiative (ELI) creates student skills and opportunities

by Belinda Allen
June 3, 2016

The Excellence in Leadership Initiative (ELI) at Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus (IUPUC) program provides students with an opportunity to explore and expand their personal leadership skills and experiences. The flexible program spans the fall and spring semesters, offering students with an opportunity to customize their experience, while developing involved students on each level. Involvement may include participation in campus organizations, employment, leadership courses, and community service projects.

There are several conditions associated with student participation in the ELI program and listed on the IUPUC Website. Examples from the site mandate that students maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5/4.0; attend a minimum of five preapproved guest lectures or campus workshops; complete academic coursework (at least three credits) focused on leadership.

Student Experience

John Bradley is an excellent example of student success in the ELI program at IUPUC. Over the past ten years, John has held a full-time, manufacturing position. Desiring career advancement opportunities, he decided to enroll in college and work towards a career in leadership.

As a non-traditional student John became involved in a leadership project. He worked as an assistant to the Associate Director of Career Services, Carol Kostrzewsky on creating a Career Fair Prep Day. The event offered students a drop-in professionalism workshop with resume critiques, dress for success information, and other relevant activities.

Recently, Circle K contacted the Office of Career Services at IUPUC regarding an open administrative position within their organization. Carol immediately thought of John, who applied, was interviewed, and hired.

Carol shares about John, “He is very motivated and has tremendous time management skills! I would never have known about him, his work ethic, time management skills, tremendous work ethic and his motivation to succeed if he hadn’t participated in the ELI program at IUPUC.”

For information about the ELI program at IUPUC contact Sandra Miles, Ph.D., Director, Office of Student Affairs at 812.375.7525 or e-mail: smiles3@iupuc.edu. For information on degree programs at IUPUC, visit www.iupuc.edu or contact the Office of Recruitment and Admissions at 812.348.7390.