servant leadership Archives

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 »]

Dealing with Conflict and Drama in Clubs and Organizations, Part 1

by Dave Kelly

Conflict in clubs and organizations can be the big “Ouch”. It hurts, it’s not fun. But, it happens for lots of reasons. When it happens, you have to be ready to deal with it. During my 30+ years of experience as a student leader, advisor, and speaker, I have … [read more »]

Dealing with Conflict and Drama in Clubs and Organizations, Part 2

by Dave Kelly

Keys to Serving When There is an Urgent Need

by Dave Kelly

In the wake of Hurricane Harvey hitting Texas and other parts of the Gulf Coast, many people, groups, churches, organizations, companies, and schools have been mobilizing to serve those affected. Students are very compassionate and colleges and universities have a lot of resources to offer when there is a tragedy. … [read more »]

Winning Habits of Serving Leaders, Part 3: Confidence

by Dave Kelly

Ever since our daughter entered middle school a few years ago, my wife and I have been going to the Student Life worship service at our church in order to hear and experience the same message as her. We have some wonderful pastors and a lot of great students involved … [read more »]

Winning Habits of Serving Leaders, Part 2: Integrity

by Dave Kelly

Brian Davis did one of the most amazing things I have ever seen in sports. It is the type of thing that should serve as an example for everyone! “I’m sorry, Dave, who?” Brian Davis is a golfer on the PGA Tour. He has over $13 million in career winnings, but … [read more »]

Winning Habits of Serving Leaders, Part 1: Commitment

by Dave Kelly

I had the pleasure and honor of presenting at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy a few years ago. After my program, I was treated to a tour of the campus by 2nd Class Cadet Victoria “Tory” Stevens. The Academy has a beautiful campus with a chapel, museum, quarters, and a deck … [read more »]