A Transformational K-State Experience
By: Whitney Morgan (’12)
As a current English teacher in Kansas City, Kansas, I have been enjoying the additional time for reflection that summer brings. With the Staley School of Leadership Studies (SSLS) celebrating its 20th year, many of these reflections have been on my own undergraduate experience and engagement in the Staley School. My name is Whitney Morgan, and I am a Nonprofit Leadership Studies minor, class of 2012. When asked to serve on a committee for the School’s 20th Year Engagement Initiative, there was no question that I wanted to give back to a program that gave so much to me.
While at K-State, the Staley School of Leadership Studies was one of my most transformative experiences as an undergraduate, not only because the courses, but also the relationships and opportunities for additional involvement. As a LEAD 212 Class Leader and School of Leadership Studies Ambassadors President, I was able to not only learn about leadership, but also develop my own leadership through authentic practice. It is no surprise that it is the largest academic track at K-State. The Staley School, no matter what discipline, expertise, position, or career provides each person exponential growth as a leader and contributing member of our world.
For four years, SSLS impacted me as a student. Today, it continues to impact my practice as a teacher. I, too, strive to empower my students to be knowledgeable, ethical, caring, and inclusive leaders in a diverse and changing world. The learning continues. It is messy. Yet, the firm foundation of knowledge, habits, and relationships that SSLS provided me supports the important work of my daily life. In this way, its reach is innumerable.
This is why I give. I give to the Staley School of Leadership Studies because it lives out its mission statement, and it develops the leaders that our world so desperately needs. I give because they gave so much to me. I give because their investment in me has allowed for me to invest more in my students.
I ask you to join me in giving back and reconnecting to the Staley School of Leadership Studies to continue its growth and impact. Individual gifts received are tracked through the “Leadership for Life” fund. A gift, of any amount, helps foster engagement and develop leaders. We will be celebrating your support at the annual Spirit of Leadership event to be held on Friday, November 10th. We look forward to reuniting and reconnecting with the expansive network of leaders and change agents that has engaged in some way with the Staley School of Leadership Studies. Mark your calendars!
I encourage you to take some moments to reflect on how your own story has been influenced by the Staley School of Leadership Studies. I ask you to consider your own commitment to its mission. Please help leadership learning, opportunities, and development continue by making a donation and/or joining us for the 20th Anniversary Celebration and Reunion Weekend. Help support the next 20 years!
Go Cats!
Whitney Morgan
