Leading By Example The College of Education Student Leadership Council by Kelli Gemmer
T
his past year, the College of Education formed its inaugural student leadership council to represent our students on all levels, including a representation of the college’s diversity. The College of Education Student Leadership Council (COESLC) provides for the mutual exchange of ideas and open dialogue between undergraduate students, graduate students and the college administration.
them to become productive and successful citizens.”
The COESLC is composed of a group of goal-oriented, dynamic and responsible students who help to shape the educational experience of their peers within the college. The students represent all departments in the college and are either self-nominated or nominated by college faculty and staff to serve on the committee for a renewable seven-month term, from October through April.
In Spring 2016, the COESLC hosted three town hall meetings to solicit feedback from students regarding what’s working well, in addition to areas for improvement within the college, their department and their program. The group has since begun an action plan in response to issues discovered through this feedback.
“We wanted to create an environment that promotes student scholarship, leadership and success,” said Dr. Amy Guerette, associate dean for academic affairs. “Furthermore, we created the SLC to equip our students with the knowledge, skills and dispositions that will enable
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Guerette and her graduate assistant, Jason Guilbeau, lead the COESLC through monthly meetings in which they discuss potential opportunities and ideas for the college. These monthly meetings offer a forum for the college’s leadership to solicit advice and perspectives on decisions affecting matters of importance to students.
COESLC members gain a valuable network with college administration, faculty, staff and other students while making a significant impact on the College of Education and Florida State University. By serving as a voice for their peers, they not only gain valuable leadership skills, but also enhance their reasoning and critical thinking abilities.