SLI helps student become a leader

First-year North Lake student Abraham Leon is a perfect fit for the Student Leadership Institute (SLI), according to Adrianne (Drena) Settles, college coordinator for student programs and resources.

She said Leon isn’t afraid of being different or of bucking the traditions of his chosen career – fashion design.

“I design suits for men,” Leon explained. “The style of clothing I design is a classic Ivy League prep look. But it’s modernized and mixed with a ‘greaser’ look of the 50s.”

Settles said Leon is both confident and capable, attributes that are welcomed at the SLI.

“The Student Leadership Institute is a training program for students who desire to enhance their leadership skills,” she added.

Leon joined the SLI this semester and was chosen to represent North Lake at a multi-school leadership conference. He and two students from 15 other colleges won $100 scholarships.

It wasn’t a lot of money, but it was enough to convince Leon that he was designed to become a leader.

“My major satisfaction is that after I joined this program, I discovered that I have a leader in me,” he said. “The Student Leadership Institute is a great program.”

The SLI was established seven years ago. It has 12 members this semester.

Leon, who hopes to someday own a clothing company, recommends the institute to other students.

Membership is available to any student whose goal is to become one of tomorrow’s leaders.

The only requirements: fill out an application and write a short essay expressing why you want to join the SLI.

Members meet every Friday in room A-376 from 2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.; all students are welcome to attend. Each session or workshop is aimed at developing and enhancing skills that will help students become effective leaders in their personal lives and in clubs and organizations at North Lake.

For more information, contact Drena at 972-273-3597.