Collegiate 100 attends 100 Leadership Academy

Collegiate L-R Uof H, PVAMU and TSU, Mrs. Broussard & Dr. Wilson

Leadership development, program planning and professionalism were on the mind of some sixty members of the Collegiate 100 members from Prairie View A&M University, Texas Southern University and the University of Houston.

The half-day academy, sponsored by the 100 Black Men of Metro Houston, Inc., was designed to provide the collegiate members an opportunity to meet with members of the 100 and to understand the roles played by Collegiate in the activities of the 100 Black Men of Metro Houston.

Dr. Frazier Wilson, immediate past President and Chairman of the Board welcomed the students and outlined the order of the day. Frederick V. Roberts, founder of the Collegiate 100 and sponsor of the Prairie View A&M University Chapter led the group with the game Scattegories, an Ice-Breaker used for Chapter Introductions. The students enjoyed the activity because they learned information about the members of the chapters at large.

The day followed up with the purpose of the Leadership Academy, Program Development, Fiscal Management, Awards and Recognition, Career Development, Mentoring and Networking.  Each topic was addressed by Dr. Frazier and members of the 100, followed by a series of table topics for discussion.  The members were then formed into groups to address a series of table topic questions, to wit: What are characteristics of an effective leader? Why Do We Exist? Our roles and responsibilities in relation to Collegiate 100 and the Parent Organization (100 Metro), the National Requirements, Membership selection, orientation and induction, 100 Branding and regulations governing the operations of chapters on the college campuses.

Next the discussion centered on programming. Dr. Frazier told the Collegiates that they are to focus on programs that are in line with the 100 Metro and Nationals, always keeping it 100, keeping it real and keeping it relevant. He cited that the students must remember that they are students first and should not engage in too many activities that may interfere with their studies. Are the chapter activities we are engaged in relevant? If yes, what is the impact? If not, what can we do differently?  How Do We Make An IMPACT? We must identify and set chapter goals, align and leverage them and then communicate them with the members and the parent organization.

Dr. Wilson emphasized that the Collegiates must conduct a campus and community needs assessment, compile the chapter skills inventory and identify the resources needed for the programs.  Collegiates must leverage your resources and skills with fewer programs and make a greater impact by working smarter not harder; and collaborating with other campus organizations. In programming, he said ask yourselves, "What will be our major accomplishment for the academic year?" and then set goals to achieve them.

On the subject of Fiscal Management, Dr. Frazier raised the questions, How Do We Remain Fiscally Sound? and What are some ideas to improve the financial literacy of our chapter and student body?  We must have accountability, conduct fiscal training workshops, comply with filing of reports on the campus for student organizations and maintain a detailed Activity Budget. Identify funding sources i.e. university organization support; Parent – corporate, foundation and government grants, Chapter – merchandizing, functions and services and annual members dues and assessments.  We need to make sure that you have the resources you need to carry out your activities.

How Are We Acknowledged? What other ways can we acknowledge contributions to the organization?

From the discussion the Collegiates stated that they could have Member of the Year, selected by each chapter

Complete national recognition application; participate in Campus Recognition Events and Student Organization Awards, Raising the Bar Activities, galas and graduation.  The induction ceremony was another way to raise awareness and earn funds from the souvenir booklet and programs. The Parent organization will assist the chapters by recognizing the members at its annual spring gala and awards program.

Next the group received a presentation from Mrs. Broussard, Career Administrator with INRoads of Houston.  Mrs. Broussard raised the question How Do We Prepare for the Workplace?  Then told the students at the end of the presentation they should ask themselves what are (2) things I can do to better prepare for life after college?

Her presentation focused on the mission of INRoads which was to provide intern for internships with member companies for at least two summers, which could lead to full time positions.

She stressed to the students that the internships provided CoOp experiences, voluntarism and opportunities for support of graduate school. The students identify their skills in communication, computers, project management, soft and networking. These skills will help prepare you and stay with you throughout your career. She also addressed the students on creating the professional resume, interviewing techniques and appearance and presentation skills.

The day ended with lunch at the Wings and Things.  From all account the members enjoyed the academy and are looking forward to another one with emphasis on leadership development and actual planning of projects.

Patrick Gray, a junior computer engineering student, is president of the Collegiate 100 along with Faydrian Pearson, a junior math education student as president of 100 Collegiate Women. For information email to: collegiate100pvamu@gmail.com.