GLENSIDE – On Saturday, August 26^th, the student leaders across the three organizations within Arcadia University's athletic department participated in the first annual day-long Elected Leaders Retreat (ELR). There were 12 participants that make up the executive boards of the Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC), The Hidden Opponent (THO) and the Knights of Color Leadership Council (KCLC).
 
This is the second signature program within the athletic department after Leadership Circle, which are both advised by Oliver Moe. At the ELR, participants uncovered their core values, learned how to lead meetings, learned how to work with others through completing a DiSC Assessment, and developed a programming plan for their organizations this year, among other things.
 
"The ELR was a very good experience that has definitely strengthened my leadership skills," explained THO president Jackie Skalski. "It was very nice to meet with other leaders within athletics and learn from each other. I am also very thankful for the invitation and look forward to watching the Arcadia Athletics community continue to grow."
 
"My experience in the ELR was overwhelmingly positive" expressed the SAAC President Jo Coates. "Every person that attended was fully committed to better themselves and their organizations. This allowed the ELR to be fun and move smoothly. The ELR gave me and the rest of the SAAV E-Board time to get to know each other and plan out our events for the year. Additionally, the ELR made me feel more comfortable in my position as SAAC President. Even though the retreat was very long, I am glad that I was given the opportunity to participate in it."
 
"Participating in ELR helped me to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be an effective leader for KCLC" shared KCLC Co-Chair Ari Williamson. "I gained a better understanding of the dynamics of leading a group, as well as the importance of recognizing the value of each individual's contributions. The retreat also helped me foster an environment of collaboration and community, which is essential for leading both on and off the ice as well as in KCLC. It allowed me to develop an appreciation for the diversity of perspectives and experiences that exist within our group, and how to bring those out in the most effective way possible. Lastly, I gained a stronger sense of self-confidence and trust in the decisions I make, which will help me to lead KCLC with clarity and purpose."
 
"Adding ELR and moving to a signature program structure for Arcadia Athletics Leadership Development creates more opportunities to provide specialized programming for our student-athletes" explained Oliver Moe. "We want each of our signature programs to be targeted and impactful for all participants. The ELR cohort all lead student-athlete centered groups that play a major role in helping enhance the student-athlete experience on campus and in the community. ELR helps these folks develop tangible skills they can rely on throughout their leadership journey in and beyond their role."


 
 
The 12 Participants:
Coates – SAAC President
Sam Whitehouse – SAAC Vice President
Paige Masonheimer – SAAC Secretary
Lee Conlu – SAAC Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Representative
Caroline Weirich – THO Vice President, SAAC Social Media Representative
Scarlette Glasser-Nehls – Middle Atlantic Conference SAAC Representative
Nadell Booker – KCLC Chair
Williamson – KCLC Co-Chair
Karahkwenhawe White – KCLC Co-Chair
Skalski – THO President
Haylee Harper – THO Secretary
Megan Klose – THO Recruitment Chair