By Morgan McCann (Whetstone staff writer)
Whetstone/Sarah Smith
Junior Kevin Mangini attempts to climb the rock wall at Camp Saginaw
As in recent years, the Student Life Office and new students took a trip to Camp Saginaw in Oxford, Penn. This weekend trip is a leadership retreat, aimed toward team building and learning leadership qualities.
This year, in addition to new students, orientation leaders and RA’s, paraprofessional staff from the Underground, the Student Life office, the Malmberg Gym and Intramurals attended.
The paraprofessional staffs were required to go and their expenses were paid for. They also participated in different activities than new students because they were training.
Sara Smith, director of student activities, said the paraprofessionals took part in sessions on diversity, retention of students and customer service.
“All so they can serve the student population to the best of their ability,†Smith said.
Whetstone/ Sarah Smith
Cindy Correia and Christopher Fucetola join with the others in participating in the group orientation
Mary Alice Ozechoski, Dean of Students, said Students who have participated in Camp Saginaw have been proven to be better leaders in the future and have better grades in classes at Wesley.
Khalil Norris-Jemmott, an RA and intramural leader, was a part of the paraprofessional group. This year was his third at Saginaw.
“It helped me realize that we’re here to serve the students†he said.
While paraprofessionals took part in their training sessions, new students participated in the ropes course and Jacktivities, which were geared to help with team building. The goal is for new students to develop leadership team skills.
New student Tito Kromah enjoyed getting to know new people and had a good time with everyone.
“I’m more focused and feel like a better leader,†he said.
All students and staff listened to motivational speaker Aric Bostick talk about his life experiences. He taught everyone that you should set goals, strive to live your dreams, and live a positive life everyday.
“The speaker really stuck to me,†Kromah said.
Many students said the activities that took place during the events of the weekend helped improve their leadership skills.
Alex Broadway, freshman, said her favorite activities included the ropes course and the trust wall.
“It really helped us all become closer and unite as a team,†she said. “Working with a group of people is something a leader needs to be able to do.â€
Whetstone/Sarah Smith
Korey Thompson practices his good will by dishing out portions to his fellow students, including Khalil Norris-Jemmott.
