Iowa Student Leadership Experience

How You Can Help Your Peers – and Yourself – Learn, Connect, and Thrive  

Student peer relationships are crucial for success in college – and for your well-being, too. This highly interactive session draws on hundreds of interviews with college students across the US to explore ways you can help your peers connect and thrive. We’ll also think about how supporting others can contribute to you growing as a learner, mentor, and leader. 

*****

Peter Felten is a distinguished academic and leader in the field of higher education. He serves as the executive director of the Center for Engaged Learning, professor of history, and assistant provost for teaching and learning at Elon University. With a deep commitment to enhancing undergraduate education, Peter has authored and co-authored several influential books, including Connections Are Everything: A College Student’s Guide to Relationship-Rich Education (2023) and Relationship-Rich Education: How Human Connections Drive Success in College.

Peter's work focuses on the importance of student-faculty and student-student relationships in fostering learning, motivation, and well-being. He is actively involved in the academic community, having served as president of the POD Network and the International Society for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. Additionally, he is a fellow of the Gardner Institute and a member of the advisory board for the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE).

Peter's contributions to the field are widely recognized, and he continues to influence the landscape of higher education through his research, publications, and leadership.

Effective Officer Transitions 

Transitioning leadership within student organizations can be a challenging process, but with the right strategies, it can be seamless and empowering. Kevin Merrill, Assistant Director for Student Organizations, Leadership, and Service at Iowa State University, leads this workshop designed to equip current and incoming student organization leaders with the tools and techniques needed for a smooth and effective leadership handover. 

Healthy Organizational Culture 

Are you ready to transform your organization into a thriving, dynamic environment where everyone feels valued and motivated? Join this engaging session on Creating Healthy Organizational Culture! This interactive workshop, led by Ian Van Anden, from the University of Iowa's Leadership, Service, and Civic Engagement team, is a can't-miss opportunity to gain insights and tools that will empower you to create a more cohesive, productive, and enjoyable community.

Sustainable Leadership

Incorporating sustainability into the operations and activities of student organizations is not only beneficial for the environment but also enhances the organization's reputation and impact. This workshop is designed to help student organization leaders understand and implement effective sustainability practices within their groups. Join Merry Rankin, Director of Sustainability for Iowa State University, for this inspiring workshop.

Conflict Coaching

Conflict is an inevitable part of any group dynamic, but with the right tools and strategies, it can be managed effectively to foster a positive and productive environment. This workshop, led by Tyler Lennon from Iowa State University Office of Student Conduct, is designed to help student organization leaders develop the skills needed to identify, manage, and resolve conflicts within their teams.

Representing Your Student Experience 

Your student experience is a valuable asset that can set you apart in the job market. This workshop, hosted by Callie Craig from Iowa State University College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Career Services, will guide you on how to effectively highlight your student involvement, leadership roles, and academic achievements on your resume, cover letter, and during interviews.

Creative Practice

Unleash your creativity and discover how engaging in creative practices can enhance your leadership skills and strengthen team dynamics. Iowa State University’s own maker-space, The Workspace, presents this hands-on workshop designed for student leaders who want to explore the power of creativity and crafts as tools for personal growth and team building.