This past weekend, the Greek Life Office staff and students within the Greek community traveled to Cleveland, Georgia, where they participated in the Greek Leaders Retreat. The purpose of the retreat was to bring together newly elected leaders to discuss the difference they can create both as individuals and as a whole within their chapters, councils, and the broader UGA community.
The retreat allowed new leaders to meet and collaborate with other individuals across councils. In addition, students were encouraged to brainstorm ideas for the upcoming year and participate in leadership programming.
“Greek Leaders Retreat has been one of the most rewarding events we have had over the last couple of years,” said Associate Director of Greek Life Kara Rex. “It’s incredible to see our new student leaders work across council lines to impact change in our community.”
Some other focuses of the Greek Leaders Retreat included an emphasis on team-building activities and opportunities to attend large and small group sessions. These sessions allowed students to discuss challenges within the Greek community and talk through identified council and chapter issues.
This year, friends of the GLO joined students and staff at the retreat to be small group facilitators. These facilitators included Graduate Assistant for Student Engagement Cambron Bice, Alcohol & Other Drugs Well-Being Coordinator Gabby Butry, Senior Coordinator for Facilities & Operations Joshua Hudson, Lambda Chi Alpha Recruitment Coordinator Blake Greene, Pennington & Company Capital Consultant Dana Morrison, Educational Leadership Consultant Madalyn Arlene Raymond, and the Greek Life Office staff members.
“My favorite part of Greek Leaders Retreat were the icebreakers that taught me how to grow as a leader and brought me closer to every council, including my own,” said Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. President Kristian Ibey.
The location of the retreat was Strong Rock Camp, a summer camp in the mountains. This provided attendees with the perfect environment for large group activities such as games, s’more making, bonfires, and other outdoor activities.
“The Greek Leaders Retreat was an amazing experience,” said UGA Miracle Executive Director Tess Abraham. “It was awesome to see so many leaders from all walks of life come together and commit to bettering the Greek community as a whole.”
The Greek Life Office is excited for the upcoming year and looks forward to seeing what these students accomplish during their terms. A special thank you to our small group facilitators and those that helped coordinate this year’s retreat.
