麻豆视频

Student Leadership Conference Inspires Students at Delaware Tech Terry Campus

October 31, 2025

The Student Leadership Conference at 麻豆视频's Dover campus inspired students to explore their passions and strengthen their leadership skills.

Dr. Bonnie Ceban, dean of student affairs, opened the Oct. 17 event by emphasizing the importance of passion, purpose and influence in leadership.

"Today is all about helping you explore your passion and your purpose and building the tools you need to achieve your own leadership goals," she said.

College President Mark Brainard shared his personal journey, underscoring the value of lifelong learning, mindfulness, and direct communication. He discussed how individuals can demonstrate leadership without holding an official title.

"There are a lot of people in this college who step up and lead every single day without a title," he said.

Brainard encouraged students to think critically about leadership and to apply lessons from the conference in their own lives.

"I'm hoping today you'll think, not necessarily agree with everything you hear, but listen, learn and really reflect on it," he said. "Then, when it makes sense to you, integrate those ideas and concepts into your own understanding of what it means to be a leader."

The conference also featured guest speakers Dr. Katina L. Clarke, department chair for social sciences at the George Campus, and Dr. Rachael Knotts, academic counselor at the Stanton Campus.

Clarke guided students through a visualization exercise to help them identify their passions and purposes.

"Passion is that fire, that spark, it's what energizes you. It's what excites and fulfills you as a person, and it's going to be different for each of us," Clarke said.

She emphasized leadership is about influence and authenticity, not titles, and shared strategies for overcoming obstacles, including seeking mentorship and using campus resources such as tutoring and counseling.

Knotts encouraged students to develop their leadership and influence now rather than wait for future promotions or titles. She demonstrated that influence is not only about speaking but also about presence and intentionality, using a blank slide to illustrate the power of silence and focus.

"Sometimes that's what influence is, being intentional, being purposeful and showing up," she said.

Students also participated in breakout sessions that focused on building leadership skills through holistic wellness, stress management and mentorship.

"We look forward to seeing how you carry out this inspiration back to your campus and into your community," Ceban said.

View photos from the .