2016 Leadership Academy Summit provides lessons, opportunities for young leaders

Augusta University hosted the 2016 Leadership Academy Summit on Saturday, Jan. 23.

Hosted as part of the NCAA Division II Military Pilot Program, the academy summit was intended to provide up-and-coming community leaders with a chance to learn from and engage with current leaders in both the field of education and military sciences.

Guest speakers included “Leadership Giants” Cathy Cox, president of Young Harris College, and Brig. Gen. Jeff Foley (Ret.).

Two Augusta University speakers, Dr. Lance Evans, associate director of the Office of Leadership Development, and Dr. Jan Mitchell, associate professor of general dentistry, also presented to students and young military leaders.

Approximately 100 attendees participated in the summit. Invitees included members of Augusta University ROTC, Student Government, senior student-athletes and members of the Student Veterans Association. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committees (SAAC) from all Peach Belt Conference schools were also invited, but weather kept many from being able to attend, said Melissa Brocato, head softball coach.

Clint Bryant, director of athletics, said the university was proud to host the academy summit.

“We must challenge ourselves every day to be the best leaders and those that we serve to be the very best that they can to achieve levels of peak performance,” Bryant said. “We at Augusta University, in partnership with the NCAA, Ft. Gordon and the Peach Belt Conference, are committed to providing this level of commitment to our best and brightest.”