Leadership Program

Cardigan Student Leaders celebrate the end of summer and pose for a group photo

The Cardigan Summer Session Leadership Program introduces young leaders to various themes and practices of leadership within an encouraging and supportive framework of self-assessment, reflection, and discussion. Leaders develop self-confidence, altruism, critical thinking skills, and global awareness through structured leadership programming.

General Description

Student Leaders take special courses in leadership, practice leadership skills, model behavior, and mentor younger students. Course work emphasizes leadership themes such as the importance of goal setting, motivation, teamwork, challenge, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. 

The Leadership curriculum includes interactive seminars led by Cardigan Summer Session faculty members and guest seminarians. Outside of the seminars, the student leaders will put their learning to practice on campus. Leaders will work with younger students in a variety of ways, including facilitating dorm debrief, helping younger students navigate their days, running select activities, and heading the family-style meals in the dining room. Leaders will practice servant leadership.

Expectations

Student Leaders model culture and behavior for our younger students. Leaders facilitate group activities, lead dorm activities, head family-style meals, and perform tasks as designated by the Leadership Team. Student Leaders rise to challenges, supported by the Leadership Team.

"Cardigan's Summer Session Leadership Program is absolutely out of this world. It's a phenomenal program, and I think that every student should go through it." Zeno, Student Leader from New York City

Who May Apply

Current 10th graders with at least one summer’s experience at Summer Session. Current 9th graders may also apply, but preference will be given to 10th graders. Enrollment is limited to 10-12 students.

How To Apply

Students interested in applying to the Leadership Program should contact summer@cardigan.org for more information.

"When I first came into this program, I wasn't the most confident person. This Leadership Program really helped me build up that self-esteem and learn what I need to be able to have self-confidence. Everything that I've learned I will take with me for the rest of my life." Yin, Student Leader from Bronx, New York

 

Summer 2024 Dates


Summer Session 2024 will begin Saturday, June 29 and end Saturday, July 27, 2024.

Inquire

How can we help you?


Matt Rinkin
Director of Summer Programs
(603) 523-3526
summer@cardigan.org