Baylor Welcomes Promising Youth To Summer Christian Leadership Institute

by Amanda Lewis, Student Newswriter

High school sophomores and juniors from across the country are invited to participate in the High School Christian Leadership Institute June 24-27 at Baylor University. The four-day conference theme is "Influencing Your World," where students will discover their God-given strengths, identify their passions and calling, challenge their minds and ignite their spirits.
Baylor's High School Christian Leadership Institute began last year to develop well-rounded, spiritual youth through small group discussions, team challenges, experiential exercises and individual coaching sessions. Throughout the weekend, participants are mentored by Baylor student leaders who themselves demonstrate high moral and spiritual qualities.
"Evaluations for the inaugural program were very positive," said Scott Wade, director of student union. "The students not only mentioned the impact that the institute had on their lives, but also the warm, inviting Baylor community that many hoped they would become a part of in the years ahead."
Last year's program included a keynote address by Baylor football legend, Walter Abercrombie, and worship by current Baylor freshman, Logan Walter.
Applicants are selected by a committee of Student Life staff. The $350 registration fee includes lodging, meals and conference materials. Applications and a $50 registration deposit for the 2004 Christian Leadership Institute are due May 1. A limited number of scholarships are available to students with financial need.
"Our candidates are young people who have demonstrated leadership skills and abilities and are committed to using their God-given strengths to invest in and influence the arenas of leadership that they find themselves in," said Wade. "We're not looking exclusively for the team captains or student government presidents. Above all else, we're looking for that initiative to serve and create positive change."
Students are challenged to strive for and attain personal goals through several team-building exercises, including rock climbing at the McLane Student Life Center and participating in the Eastland Lakes ropes course. Additional fellowship opportunities include a coffee house concert and a RootBear Float Night Cap.
The conference also will feature a keynote address and seminars by Dave Stone, associate pastor for Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Ky. A speaker at more than 30 regional and national conferences, Stone emphasizes the value of leadership in his presentations, as well as in his four publications. Two of his most recent works include Keeping Your Head Above Water and 60 Simple Secrets Every Pastor Should Know. Stone was the first clergyman named as one of the top 40 leaders under the age of 40 in the Kentucky/Indiana region by BusinessFirst magazine.
Potential participants are encouraged to complete the application process and obtain two personal references by May 1. More information about the 2004 High School Christian Leadership Institute is available online at High School Christian Leadership Institute or by contacting the office of the vice president for student life at (254) 710-7611 or Christian_Leadership@baylor.edu.