By: Communication Intern Kyle Rutledge, Oklahoma State ’12
In the summer of 2012, I received a call from our chapter president asking me to take a week out of my summer and attend something called Leadership Academy. My non-outgoing former self was reluctant to put summer break on pause.
Moreover, I didn’t know what it was about other than my chapter president telling me, “It’ll make you a better leader.” Little did I know how right he would be.
I sort of went into the experience blind. Not many people from my chapter had ever been or could explain what it would be like. However, two other guys from my chapter and I went with an open mind about it.
We were all eager to find out how Leadership Academy was going to be. I still remember our conversations on the drive there.
“What do you think brothers around the country are like?” “I wonder if they’re like our chapter at all.”
Then we arrived. No more wondering, Leadership Academy had begun.
Right from the start it was one of the friendliest environments I’d ever been in. What happened for the rest of the week was incredibly fun, educational and most importantly, worth it.
At Leadership Academy I learned a variety of skills, as well as my strengths as a leader. The staff and brothers who attended we’re great and wanted to help each other be the best leader they could be. It was awesome to witness brothers from across the country living our creed.
It truly made an impact on my life.
During one of the days at Leadership Academy I gained a great understanding of SeriousFun Children’s Network, which ultimately led me down a path to volunteer at Flying Horse Farms in Ohio. If I did not attend the luncheon, I honestly don’t know if I ever would’ve gone to a SeriousFun camp.
If you’re wondering what I’ve done since Leadership Academy, here it is. I’ve held multiple Executive Council positions, volunteered at SeriousFun camp, attended Conclave and met a ton of brothers from around the country.
The experience made a really positive impact on my life and leadership abilities. I truly owe my gratitude to the staff and Phriends of Phi Tau who taught me about being a leader.
When this opportunity arises for you, I hope you don’t miss out on it. I hope you take that chance and run with it. I promise you’ll end up doing some pretty great things.
Click here to register for Leadership Academy.
