Trainings & Workshops

Donaldson Leadership Retreat: Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders

The Donaldson Leadership Retreat, a flagship initiative of the Illinois Leadership Center, is a powerful testament to the impact of philanthropy on leadership development. Generously supported by Jane Donaldson, this annual retreat provides a transformational experience for undergraduate leaders of Registered Student Organizations (RSOs). Nestled in the scenic beauty of Allerton Park and Retreat Center in Monticello, IL, this retreat promises personal growth, skill enhancement, and a deeper understanding of effective leadership.

When and Where:

All information about the retreat is located here. This retreat invites participants to embark on a journey of self-discovery and leadership mastery. Allerton Park, an idyllic location steeped in history and natural splendor, offers a serene backdrop for this developmental voyage.

Empowering Leaders:

Students who attend the Donaldson Leadership Retreat can expect to:

1. Skill Development: Sharpen their leadership abilities, gaining invaluable insights into team management, strategic planning, and decision-making.

2. Campus Insight: Explore the nuances of the campus culture and the policies that shape their student organizations, allowing for informed leadership.

3. Transition Planning: Create comprehensive leadership transition plans to ensure the continuity and growth of their organizations.

4. Collaboration: Understand the significance of collaboration with fellow student organizations to drive collective success.

Engaging Conversations:

The retreat offers a unique opportunity for participants to engage in candid conversations with esteemed campus administrators. These discussions will revolve around topics that significantly impact students and student organizations at the University of Illinois. The insights gained from these conversations will be invaluable for their leadership journey.

Dynamic Workshops and Presentations:

Through a series of workshops and presentations, students will be equipped with the knowledge and tools they need to be more effective leaders. Practical insights, case studies, and expert guidance will empower them to drive positive change within their respective organizations.

Celebrating Success:

The retreat doesn't end on the last day. A follow-up session later in the semester will provide an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since the retreat. It's a time to celebrate shared victories and set new goals for the future.

Application and Participation:

To be part of this life-changing experience, Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) should submit an application during the appropriate application window as described on the website. We encourage RSO officers to lead this initiative, and if an applicant holds multiple roles in different organizations, they should choose one organization per application. The application will also request nominations for 1 or 2 members of their organization to participate in the retreat.

Selected RSO representatives can anticipate comprehensive support, including transportation to and from the retreat, lodging, and meals throughout the program. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Daily Schedule: Participants can look forward to an engaging daily schedule comprising workshops, presentations, group discussions, and individual reflections, as well as meals, snacks, and refreshments.

• Location: The retreat unfolds against the backdrop of Allerton Park Retreat Center in Monticello, Illinois.

• Cost: The Donaldson Leadership Retreat is a cost-free opportunity for students.

• Full Attendance: To ensure the maximum benefit, all participants are expected to commit to attending the entire program.

Contact:

For further information about applying for The Donaldson Leadership Retreat, please feel free to get in touch with the Illinois Leadership Center at 217-333-0604 or leadership@illinois.edu. 

The Donaldson Leadership Retreat is not merely an event; it's a pathway to creating the next generation of exceptional leaders who will shape the future of their student organizations and beyond. It's an opportunity for growth, connection, and lasting impact.

The Institute™ by LeaderShape®

The LeaderShape® Institute™, a nationally recognized leadership development retreat, has been transforming the lives of young leaders. Hosted by the Illinois Leadership Center, a dedicated session for Illinois undergraduate students is convened each year at the tranquil Allerton Park and Retreat Center in Monticello, IL. The upcoming session in 2024 is scheduled from January 9th to January 12th.

Application Deadline:

All information about the Institute can be found here, along with the application link.

Exploring Leadership:

This retreat, unlike traditional leadership gatherings, delves into self-discovery, self-reflection, and feedback in the company of approximately 60 peers. Rather than focusing on generic leadership skills, the Institute has a unique focus on identifying the values that drive positive change in the communities participants are part of. Through comprehensive self-assessment, intense small group discussions, challenging team-building activities, and more, participants craft a vision for something they deeply care about.

Leading with Passion and Integrity:

By igniting their leadership journey with passion, integrity, and a fearless approach to achieving the "impossible," participants explore their true selves and the impact they want to make on communities working towards a more compassionate, just, and equitable society.

Participation Details:

• For Current Students: About 60 Illinois students are selected annually to partake in our session of The Institute. These participants are chosen and financially sponsored by their respective colleges, departments, or units. This sponsorship encompasses transportation to and from the Allerton Park and Retreat Center and accommodation with meals. Participants are grouped into small "Family Clusters" during the retreat.

• Information Sessions: Information sessions will be conducted for current students in September and October. Interested students can register for these sessions through the ILC website. Dates, times, and locations are as follows:

Cluster Facilitators: Facilitating each group, known as "Family Clusters," are Cluster Facilitators, consisting of University of Illinois faculty, staff, alumni, or local community members. If you are interested in being a Cluster Facilitator, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Daily Schedule: A typical day begins with breakfast at 7:45 AM and concludes around 9:00 or 10:00 PM. Activities include team-building exercises, group discussions, individual reflections, and engaging conversations. Meals, snacks, and refreshments are provided to participants each day.

• Location: The program is hosted at the picturesque Allerton Park Retreat Center in Monticello, Illinois. Round-trip transportation, lodging, and three daily meals are provided for all participants. Learn more about Allerton Park here.

• Cost: The retreat is financially sponsored by respective colleges, departments, or units, ensuring that participants do not bear any costs.

• Attendance Expectation: To maintain program integrity, participants must commit to attending the entire program, as agreed in the application.

• Eligibility: The program is exclusively open to Illinois undergraduate students.

Contact Us:

For further details regarding applications or any queries about The Institute, please contact the Illinois Leadership Center at 217-333-0604 or leadership@illinois.edu.

Join The Institute™ by LeaderShape® and embark on a journey of leadership, self-discovery, and profound impact. Become a part of a vibrant community of leaders shaping a brighter, more equitable future for all.