goal setting Archives - David A. Kelly

Unwrapping the Gifts of Student Leadership

One of my favorite movies of all time is A Christmas Story, written by Jean Shepherd.
The story is told in vignettes revolving around activities typically held this time of year. Narrated by author, playwright, and broadcaster Shepherd, Ralphie is loosely based on recollections from his life.

As I get ready to watch this holiday classic for the 400th time, I began thinking about my time as a student. What would it be like to look back and see the gifts I would receive as a student leader? Hopefully no socks, underwear, or lumps of coal in those packages!

The ABCs of Student Thanksgiving

by Dave Kelly

Thanksgiving week is a special time of year! The former pastor of my church would share his ABCs of Thanksgiving each November. I always enjoyed that sermon, especially as he would mix it up from year to year – except for “N”, which was always NASCAR. So, I thought … [read more »]

Engage Students on Campus with a Day of Service

by Dave Kelly

A Day of Service is an opportunity for students across the campus to come together in service. Some of my favorite times to do A Day of Service include new student orientation; club/activity fairs; Make a Difference Day in October; Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, Day and Week in January; and Earth Day … [read more »]

Leadership vs. Liarship in Campus Clubs and Organizations

by Dave Kelly

A student’s leadership skills are developed through campus organizations, serving in the community, and other opportunities where they can stretch those muscles. But is liarship creeping into students’ officer and leadership roles? You are familiar with liarship: it thinking and believing that you are acting as a leader, … [read more »]

Excellence Can Be Achieved by Every Student!

by Dave Kelly

“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.” Vince Lombardi (1913-1970), Legendary coach of the Green Bay Packers “Ah, it’s good enough. Let’s just go with what we have.” Have you ever heard that? Have you ever said that? While it may be true … [read more »]

Keys to Helping Students Create a Vision for Their Organization

by Dave Kelly

Proverbs 29:18 – “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” OK, maybe nothing quite that dramatic will happen if the leaders of your campus’ clubs and organizations don’t create a vision. But, they may not have as much fun if they have no idea where they are going … [read more »]