On the third floor of the Student Activities Center of the University Union, a group of students finished up a class designed to teach and better develop leadership skills for the campus community, Thursday afternoon.

Designed and implemented by Associated Students, Inc., President Jason Bryant, along with ASI Assistant Director Pat Worley, have put together a class designed to introduce students to the theory and practice of leadership.

“A year ago, I never really thought we?d have this much support and willing students,” Bryant said.

The leadership class teaches students how to work in groups, communicate effectively and provides information about leadership opportunities in the campus community. Students listened to guest speakers from the faculty, including ASI Director Carol Ackerson.

“They?ve learned something, to think about the complexity of leadership and how it can be much more effective,” Ackerson said.

Along with interactive classroom discussions, the class had a leadership building session at the Peak Adventures ropes course. Students participated in a variety of team-building exercises, from silly hand gesture games, to complex numeral tests, and even some of which extended 50 feet off the ground.

“Since I?m afraid of heights, it enabled me to trust other individuals, which is contrary to my normal independence,” said Public Relations major Crystal Chase.

The class has been a great experience for Chase.

“I?ve realized that there are different leadership styles which were demonstrated by the instructors, all of which have been proven successful methods,” Chase said.

For more information about when another leadership class takes place, contact Student Activities at 278-6595.