.gif)
RAPID CITY, S.D. (March 26, 2013) – A newly-minted, prestigious group of student leaders at the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology is set to kick off the inaugural year of the Professional Development Institute.
The Institute, comprised of student leaders dedicated to advancing professional development and leadership while increasing their own skills, will “be a great opportunity to make a difference on campus, in the community and in the lives of fellow students,” says Julie Ohlsen, assistant director of the Career & Professional Development Center.
Selected through a rigorous process of nomination, résumé review and interviewing, 35 students will serve three semesters, gaining advanced leadership training and helping to organize the Leadership Awards Ceremony and two campus-wide retreats. Additionally, students will engage in public outreach, including leadership and professional development training for area businesses, community and campus organizations, along with programming for K-12 students.
Advanced leadership training for the Institute members will be determined by the students with possible topics ranging from public speaking and marketing techniques to ethical decision-making and leadership styles.
Membership perks include special interaction with the university president and campus speakers, as well as tickets to events focused on leadership and professional development. Institute members will also benefit from opportunities for meetings with employers that recruit on the Mines campus.
The Professional Development Institute’s mission is to prepare future professionals by engaging students in leadership roles and collaborative efforts; helping develop effective communication skills; fostering understanding and appreciation of human diversity; inspiring civic engagement; providing and supporting career opportunities; and aiding in personal development.
Businesses and organizations interested in leadership and professional development training may email professionaldevelopmentinstitute@mines.sdsmt.edu for more information.