Heroic leadership in campus clubs

By Herman M. Lagon

Student clubs thrive beyond lecture halls and libraries in university corridors. These organizations foster transformative leadership, not just extracurriculars. Students learn, network, and become global leaders here. According to leadership guru Chris Lowney, in these settings, bravery, courage, and a commitment to positive change define heroic leadership.

Heroic university club leadership challenges the status quo and resists mediocrity. It is rare and vital in today’s climate of leader distrust in public governance. These leaders value authenticity, collaboration, emotional intelligence, and high standards for themselves and others. They lead by example and improve their communities by encouraging open communication and constructive dissent.

University clubs, microcosms of society, foster heroic leadership. Student leaders in these clubs must make meaningful change, like their heroic counterparts elsewhere. They should create long-term, impactful initiatives rather than short-term, incentive-driven ones. This change in focus ensures long-term community benefits from their efforts.

Effective university club leadership requires emotional intelligence. Deeper connections with peers help student leaders build trust and community. Motivating members to work hard for the club’s goals requires this emotional connection. Transparency and open communication strengthen this bond, making members feel valued and heard.

Heroic leaders use constructive dissent to harness diverse perspectives. University club leaders must promote healthy debate and respect for differing opinions. This practice improves solutions and strengthens club dynamics, making it more resilient and innovative.

Inspiring student leaders distinguish authority from influence. Authority comes from position, but influence comes from uplifting and empowering others. Focusing on influence, these leaders can create a culture of mutual respect and shared goals that last beyond their time at the club.

The recent selection process for the Most Outstanding Club and Student Leader at Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) offers a compelling example of heroic leadership in action. The panel of former university student leaders and educators (including myself) judged entries on impact, consistency, depth, sustainability, innovation, and alignment with the university’s guiding principles. The finalists were socially responsible, addressing community issues and encouraging inquiry and advocacy.

This year, the top ISUFST clubs had a clear mission and broad partnerships with various organizations. Collaborations exponentially increased their reach and effectiveness, addressing social inequalities and fostering collective impact. The university’s environmental clubs worked with local governments on coastal clean-up and reforestation projects, demonstrating cross-sector collaboration.

These clubs also thrived on inclusivity and authenticity. These clubs gained credibility and trust by engaging their target audience and adhering to their mission and values. This approach built trust with community stakeholders, boosting their initiatives and fostering member ownership.

ISUFST’s top clubs prioritized empathy and equity. Understanding others’ needs and perspectives helped these clubs provide mental health awareness campaigns and support groups. Additionally, projects to give underprivileged students responsive assistance and educational materials showed their commitment to social justice and opportunity.

The clubs understood systems thinking and strengths-based approaches almost instinctively. They addressed the systems perpetuating social problems to ensure long-term progress and sustainability. Cultural clubs promoted student and community pride by celebrating local heritage.

Community engagement and accountability improved community well-being. Health and wellness workshops helped families teach children positive identity and outcomes. The clubs’ projects met their goals and improved with rigorous evaluation, boosting program effectiveness and social impact.

Heroic leadership in university clubs is about helping others, especially those without power. By following these principles, student leaders can inspire change and excellence. This leadership prepares students to transform their careers and communities beyond the university.

University clubs are more than extracurriculars—they test heroic leadership. Student leaders can demonstrate bravery, courage, and positive change in these settings. They can create lasting, community-beneficial initiatives by promoting inclusivity, constructive dissent, and emotional intelligence. These student leaders have the skills and values to become transformative leaders who challenge the status quo and change the world.

As we reflect on the importance of clubs in universities, it becomes clear that these organizations are not just optional activities but essential arenas for personal and communal growth. By actively participating in clubs, students can find their voices and, more importantly, inspire others to find theirs. The skills, values, and experiences gained through club involvement are invaluable, shaping students into leaders who can make a significant difference in their communities and beyond. So, dive into the world of university clubs, embrace the challenges, and become the heroic leaders our world desperately needs.

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Doc H fondly describes himself as a “student of and for life” who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.