Taking part in an experiential learning program offered at UBC Vancouver helped Lindsay Cashin, a staff member on the Development and Alumni Engagement team at the Peter A. Allard School of Law, develop her leadership skills while collaborating with community organizations and students on a meaningful initiative.
Ms. Cashin completed the UBC Community Leadership Program, which is offered annually to staff , faculty and graduate students. Sponsored by Human Resources and the Centre for Community Engaged Learning, the program is designed in two phases with activities during the months of October to March.
In the first phase, participants take part in a series of concept-driven workshops. In the second phase, they apply their learning by collaborating with community organizations and undergraduate students through both the Reading Week program and the Student Leaders program. Together, participants spend three days implementing community initiatives in a school or non-profit organization in the Lower Mainland.
Reflecting on her experience in the program, Ms. Cashin remarks that partnering with undergraduate students on a Reading Week project was a highlight. “I got to test-drive leadership skills while working with a brilliant student leader and five student volunteers on a film project for a really engaged and supportive community partner. It was unlike anything I’d experienced before at UBC.”
“It’s a great fit for those who are ready to throw themselves into something different from their day-to-day work and are prepared to invest in their own growth as a leader.”
The Community Leadership Program is an example of how UBC is increasing experiential learning — ‘learning by doing’ — opportunities for students, faculty, staff and alumni: Strategy 13: Practical Learning.
Visit the Focus on People website to learn more about Ms. Cashin’s experience and the Community Leadership Program.