It was a University of St. Thomas-Houston student who initially presented the excellent idea to further develop UST student leaders through an event planned by student leaders. The seed found fertile ground, and St. Thomas held its third annual Student Leadership Summit over the weekend.

The daylong gathering included keynote speakers, breakout sessions, panelists and networking opportunities. Student Career Services even hosted a special lunch where participants learned proper etiquette.

The theme of this year’s Summit was “Developing the Whole Person.” Various sessions introduced the idea of developing oneself in all areas—physically, emotionally, professionally, spiritually and mentally.

Preparing for Careers Beyond UST

Advisor to the Student Leadership Council, Anna Haydon, said, “We had speakers from a variety of backgrounds, from teachers and professors to nurses and doctors. We wanted the students to learn how to continue to grow as they move into their careers beyond UST.”

The names of the Breakout Sessions aptly described the focus: 

·      “The Case for Self-Centered Leadership” by Dr. Aaron Pomerantz 

·      “Faith, Work, and Family” by Dr. Kristina Leyden

·      “Essential Elements of the Whole Self” by Fr. Dempsey Rosales Acosta

·      “How Leaders Develop the Whole Person” by Dr. Ana-Lisa Gonzalez

A Leadership Event Planned by Student Leaders

Katila Vieira Días led three other members of the Leadership Council — Diego Treviño, Gaby Espinoza, and Kelsie Droptini — in creating the most recent Summit.

“Our team was responsible for planning every aspect of the summit, from the t-shirt and graphic design to the mission, vision and theme,” Días said. “We have worked hard since November, and our hard work paid off in a seamless Summit.”

Over 120 students registered for this beautiful, in-person growth opportunity. Their leadership roles include serving at the Office of Student Activities, Campus Ministry and Residence Life. Others hold positions in Student Government; ministry roles such as Peer Ministers; posts as Presidential Ambassadors; and planners of large-scale student events.

Keeping the Summit Fresh

Each year, the council of students who plan the Summit excitedly brings a new set of fresh ideas to make it better. The team continues to focus on relevant topics and match the current issues for which students seek wisdom. 

Días added, “At UST, we believe we have the opportunity for ‘Developing the Whole Person’ to realize their full potential through our academics and experiences like Leadership Summit. This year’s speakers supported up with ideas and tips for improving and developing ourselves physically and spiritually—holistically.”