Student Leadership Retreat

The first student leadership retreat was held at Camp Courage in Maple Lake, Minnesota on September 22-23, 2007. The title of the retreat was Transforming Attitude and Passion - TAP into your leadership potential.  

Prior to attending, the participants read The Fred Factor, a short story with a powerful message about how an average postman took responsibility for making a difference for those he served. In addition, students completed a reflective assignment about a personal commitment to excellence in professional practice and service. This assignment served as their "ticket" into the retreat. 

Once at the retreat center, mini-lectures and discussions, building on the themes in The Fred Factor, were available. In addition, students engaged in activities that help them recognize an individual's ability to lead regardless of position or title. In the afternoon, students participated in a series of four outdoor exercises, facilitated by a pharmacy practice resident. These "games" required teamwork for the most effective outcome and emphasized the power of relationship building.  

Self-reflection was an important theme in the retreat. Clips from the movie About Schmidt were viewed, telling the story of an individual who has reached his retirement and is reflecting on the dreams and aspirations he had when he was young. Students were then sent into the woods for an extended reflection and writing period. During this reflection, students are asked to write a letter to themselves that outlines a personal commitment to making a difference in health care.  

The Retreat was available for all students in their second, third or fourth year of the PharmD curriculum. Students in Phar 6237 were expected to attend. All participants stay at the camp overnight, allowing for Fred Factor Skits, recreational activities and s'mores by the a campfire in the evening. Evaluations of the retreat were strong and this event will be continued annually. Thanks are extended to our corporate sponsor, Wal-Mart, for making the retreat, and future retreats, possible through an endowed gift.

For further information, please feel free to contact Dr. Todd Sorensen, Dr. Andrew Traynor or Dr. Kristin Janke.