an introduction to the SPA Leadership Program and how service-learning has
become a focal point of leadership development in the Program. Later we share
lessons learned to make the experience richest for the students.
The School of Public Affairs Leadership Program
The formal goals of the Leadership Program in the School of Public Affairs at
American University are:
• To prepare students to effect positive change through public service and
socially aware citizenship;
• To create a dynamic learning environment through the use of guest
speakers, experiential activities, reflective assignments, and fieldwork, so
students finish the program with practical experience, clarified career
goals, and heightened self-awareness; and
• To provide opportunities for students to work independently and in
teams.
Students apply to the program as incoming freshmen and continue with the same
cohort until they graduate. The freshman and sophomore classes meet once a
week. Students read leadership literature and biographies, do exercises and
simulations to bring lessons to life, and practice public speaking. The freshmen
are separated into five groups that perform community service projects. The
sophomore hands-on activity is a fundraiser for the beneficiary of their choice.
Their fall semester juniors go out on internships and have class every other
week. They focus on organizational leadership and reflect on their own
Convention