Steps to Leaps to host Discussions and Dialogues series

The Steps to Leaps initiative will host six events as part of its Discussions and Dialogues series this fall.

Steps to Leaps is a collaborative, campuswide effort to foster lifelong habits and promote student growth in the areas of well-being, leadership, impact, networks and grit/persistence. Discussions and Dialogues will highlight departments, programs and people that have leveraged Steps to Leaps language and pillars to support students. 

All Discussions and Dialogues will be held in Krach Leadership Center, Room 230, and will have an option to attend virtually. Information regarding virtual options can be found on the Steps to Leaps events page. 

Events are as follows:

Sept. 8 (Th) – A Steps to Leaps Introduction

Presented by Carl Krieger, director of residential education for student life. Steps to Leaps is a framework with a set of five convenient, self-assessment pillars that help students build lifelong habits that lead to greater resiliency, self-confidence and financial literacy and promote a growth mindset. These pillars give students context for the many resources available across campus and help them connect skills and experiences. This presentation is intended to introduce new staff members to the Steps to Leaps initiative and how they can support students using its framework. The presentation starts at 1 p.m.

Sept. 22 (Th) – Strengths and Steps to Leaps

Presented by Jesus Romero, assistant director for student leadership development, and Remingtin Mickle, coordinator for leadership and professional development. All first-year and transfer students have access to the CliftonStrengths for Students online talent assessment and Strengths resources via the myStrengths online portal. Students are introduced to the concept in their pre-arrival information and during orientation programs. Workshops offer students ongoing opportunities to grow within their Strengths. Learn how this tool can be used to support students within the Steps to Leaps framework. The presentation starts at 1 p.m.

Oct. 5 (W) – Leadership Development in University Residences

Presented by Jen Bannon, associate director of residential life. Student leadership opportunities in University Residences extend well beyond serving as a resident assistant. This presentation will explore the numerous opportunities for students to grow as leaders within University Residences, with a focus on the Steps to Leaps leadership pillar. The presentation starts at 1 p.m.

Oct. 20 (Th) – Purdue Engagement and Impact

Presented by Rod Williams, assistant provost for engagement. The Purdue Office of Engagement connects the University with communities and individuals in partnerships to make the world a more equitable, resilient and prosperous place for all. The office fosters reciprocal relationships with external partners, leveraging University resources in teaching, research and engagement to solve societal challenges. This presentation focuses on opportunities available to students through funding and experience. The presentation starts at 1 p.m.

Nov. 3 (Th) – The Purdue Health Equity Initiative

Presented by Jerome Adams, executive director of health equity initiatives, and Holly Woods, senior director of health equity initiatives. The mission of Purdue Health Equity Initiatives is to ensure all people have fair access to resources and opportunities that will allow them to make healthy choices. This presentation will share how the initiative leverages Purdue’s strengths in education, research, technology, data, engagement, entrepreneurship, communication and policy to provide a strong foundation for making a difference in their focus areas. The presentation starts at 9 a.m.

Nov. 17 (Th) – Supporting Student Athletes

Presented by Brad Foltz, sports psychologist. The life of a student-athlete can be very different from that of their peers, with unique challenges in and outside the field of competition. Additional support can help these individuals thrive as students and athletes. Learn about the resources that are available to student-athletes and how various areas of campus interact with their experience. The presentation starts at 9 a.m.