F&M Stories
What Does Leadership Mean to F&M Students?
We asked Franklin & Marshall students: What defines leadership? The breadth of answers demonstrates the College鈥檚 endless opportunities to learn and lead.
For Rouse Scholar Tatyana Ulman 鈥27, it鈥檚 about amplifying all voices. For public service intern Ethan Grabowski 鈥26, it鈥檚 making a difference in local government. For peer health educator McConn Honor 鈥26, it鈥檚 supporting mental health on campus.
Below, hear from students who found their footing as a leader within a club, community or mentorship role.
鈥淟istening to others and making sure their voices are heard, even if they鈥檙e not the loudest.鈥
鈥淟eadership is wanting to improve, grow and cultivate something beyond just what's going on in the present.鈥 - Sara Paul 鈥26
鈥淟eadership is not individual. It's about finding your community and making a difference within that space.鈥 - Ryan Bond 鈥26
鈥淚 don't think there is one right way to lead鈥 It comes from what you learn.鈥 - Jonathan Ludwig 鈥26
鈥淢aking meaningful contributions to the community.鈥
鈥淏eing compassionate with the group that you're with and listening to the needs of others.鈥 - Megan Corry 鈥28
鈥淭aking initiative even before you're asked.鈥 - Sonali Purohit 鈥27
鈥淭aking responsibility and offering guidance in a process 鈥 as well as talking to the people you鈥檙e guiding 鈥 and having an open dialogue.鈥 - Codi Rumsey 鈥27
鈥淭he ability to hear everyone's concerns, opinions, disagreements and agreements.
And as a leader, you need to be okay with being wrong.鈥
鈥淏eing able to hear the smallest voices in the room and amplify them.鈥 - Kylie Henigan 鈥27
鈥淢aking a positive impact while trying to inspire others. Helping people see what's possible and realizing 鈥業 can do that, too.鈥欌 - Summer Baker 鈥27
鈥淏eing able to care for the people in your community and provide the resources they need.鈥 - Sarah Zeigler 鈥28
Franklin & Marshall Leadership Fellows
Franklin & Marshall Fellows are purpose-driven communities of students who exemplify F&M鈥檚 commitment to meaningful impact through leadership, innovation, and problem-solving.
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