Student leaders urged to register for RSO Leadership Conference

KALAMAZOO--WMU students who want to become premiere leaders in their registered student organizations are invited to attend the third annual RSO Leadership Conference, Friday and Saturday, Aug. 17-18, at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo. The theme of this year's conference is "Model the Way."

To attend the conference, students must register online by 5 p.m. Friday, July 13. The cost of the 2012 RSO Leadership Conference is $25. An additional fee is charged depending on lodging choice. Three choices are being offered: $10 for a room shared with three, $25 for a room shared with one, and $100 for a single room. The conference cost and lodging fee can be paid by visiting the Student Activities and Leadership Programs main office.

The conference is a professional leadership development opportunity that provides WMU students with the environment and tools necessary for their RSOs to succeed during the 2012-13 academic year and beyond.

WMU alumnus Chris Praedel, a former president of the Western Student Association, will be the opening keynote speaker. The conference also will feature a grant-writing competition allowing RSOs to compete for funds to implement programming in collaboration with other RSOs.

Scheduled educational sessions will address such topics as leadership, service, RSO public relations and finances, event planning, social media, and living dreams. In addition, the conference will give participants opportunities to network, collaborate, build coalitions, learn new skills and plan strategically for their RSO. For seasoned student leaders, the conference will also have an advanced track to encourage leadership development.

Visit rso.wmich.edu/synergy.html to register through GoRSO or obtain more information. Questions should be directed to Sarah Schultz, graduate assistant for leadership and service programs, at salp-rsoleadership@wmich.edu or (269) 387-2475.