Liberatory leadership acknowledges that “this is not about ignoring the role of the individual, but rather about balancing the benefits of increasing collective leadership while still recognizing the crucial role of individual action” (Owen & Komives, 2023). This approach aligns with the core principles of liberatory thinking, which involve reimagining one’s assumptions and beliefs about others and their capabilities.
At its core, liberatory leadership is a transformative approach that empowers individuals to create positive change, amplify diverse voices, and foster collaborative environments. Several studies emphasize the importance of leadership skills that align with liberatory principles. This type of leadership not only enhances personal and professional development but also contributes to broader societal transformation.
As a PES student, the Emerge Summer Leadership Institute offers a life-changing opportunity to develop as a liberatory leader, empowering you to make a real difference in your academic journey and future career. Here's why these leadership skills are crucial for you:
- You'll enhance your ability to create positive change. The Institute equips you with tools to recognize and transform systemic structures, empowering you to forge new paths and opportunities for yourself and others.
- Your voice matters. This program will teach you how to amplify your unique experiences and perspectives, turning them into catalysts for meaningful change in your community and beyond.
- Together, we're stronger. You'll discover how to shift from "me" to "we," embracing collaborative leadership that uplifts your entire community through healing, support, and shared liberation.
- Sharpen your critical thinking. The institute helps you develop a keen awareness of power dynamics and social inequities, positioning you to become an effective change agent in various spheres of your life.
- Adapt and thrive. You'll build resilient leadership skills that combine emotional intelligence, cultural responsiveness, and innovative problem-solving – essential tools for navigating the complex social landscapes you'll encounter.
This experience will not only prepare you for academic success but also position you as a future leader ready to make a meaningful impact in your community and beyond.
The Curriculum
Our comprehensive curriculum is designed to equip PES students with the essential skills needed to thrive in college and beyond. Here is what you can expect from the curriculum:
Building Self-Confidence and Self-Advocacy
Many first-year students face imposter syndrome or uncertainty about their place in college. Our leadership curriculum is designed to help you leverage your unique strengths, develop a sense of purpose and direction, build confidence in your abilities, and strengthen your self-advocacy skills. By learning these essential skills, you'll gain the confidence to seek out resources, communicate effectively, and take charge of your goals.
Developing Problem-Solving and Resilience
College presents various challenges, including academic difficulties, financial pressures, and the need to balance multiple responsibilities. Leadership development focuses on teaching advanced problem-solving skills, strategies to build mental and emotional resilience, and adaptability skills necessary for thriving in a dynamic environment. These skills will enable you to persevere through challenges, cultivate a growth mindset, and transform obstacles into opportunities.
Enhancing Career and Life Skills
Leadership goes beyond merely having a title; it is about cultivating essential skills that are transferable and vital for success in college, career, and life. Key skills such as effective communication, teamwork, decision-making, and time management play a crucial role in achieving success both academically and professionally. By focusing on these areas, we can better prepare ourselves for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Empowering YOU to Make an Impact
Leadership involves more than just personal success; it is about uplifting others and fostering positive change. This can include advocating for accessibility, supporting fellow students, and representing rural and diverse voices. Leadership development empowers students to use their unique perspectives to enrich the university community and improve their college experience.
The Emerge Summer Leadership Institute Curriculum Development
About Dr. Tanya Williams
Tanya, born and raised in Houston, Texas, now calls New York City home after previously living in Western Massachusetts. With over 25 years of experience in diversity, inclusion, and social justice education, she has held leadership roles at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Mount Holyoke College, and Union Theological Seminary, where she served as Deputy Vice President for Institutional Diversity and Community Engagement.
Tanya is a Co-lead Facilitator for the LeaderShape Institute and a Senior Trainer and Board Member with Class Action. She has also served as a mentor and retreat facilitator for the Posse Foundation. She holds an Ed.D. in Social Justice Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where her dissertation focused on internalized oppression and liberation. She also earned an M.S. in Educational Administration and a B.A. in Journalism and English from Texas A&M University.