by Kelly Stenka
Doane University welcomed 101 students from six Nebraska high schools to campus Jan. 21 for the fifth annual We Build Leaders symposium.
Students from Ansley Public School, Crete High School, David City Public Schools, Litchfield Public Schools, McCool Public Schools and Seward High School participated in the immersive leadership event focused on advocacy, adaptability, integrity and empowerment.
Through interactive sessions and collaborative activities, students strengthened their confidence, decision-making skills and ability to inspire others. One participant said their favorite part of the experience was learning to “communicate, coordinate and work effectively as a team of leaders throughout the day.”
The symposium also highlighted Doane’s emphasis on leadership development alongside academic achievement. “Growing as a leader is development-oriented, and Doane is a place where we encourage students to do that while earning their degree,” said Quint Geis '13, director of career, leadership and service. “We wanted these high school students to know they can pursue these opportunities as they take their next step, and that is what we want for every student at Doane.”
One attendee said the experience helped them envision their future, adding, “I could definitely see myself being a leader at Doane in the future.”
For many of the students, the symposium offered a first glimpse of what leadership looks like beyond the classroom, pairing hands-on learning with conversations that encouraged them to think differently about their own potential.
