Photos by Amanda Castro-Crist
One hundred students from 10 Amarillo College clubs and organizations gathered this weekend at the Talon Point Conference Center near Channing for the annual AC Student Leadership Retreat.
During the retreat, which began Friday evening and ended Saturday afternoon, the students enjoyed the grounds at the center, attended a dance and participated in leadership and team-building exercises led by Greg Clark of Clark Expeditions.
“The students (this year) did great,” said Heather Atchley, student life director. “I was really excited because it was twice the number of students that signed up (previously).”
Atchley said organizers try to rotate speakers each year so students who attend multiple times will get a different experience each time. It was the fourth time AC has teamed up with Clark Expeditions for the retreat.
Clark said the exercises, which included physical and mental challenges, are designed to make participants feel comfortable with the hope that it will spur even the quietest of the group to share ideas.
“Sometimes, there’s a student waiting to be heard, but no one’s listening to them,” Clark said.
Atchley said all first-year students and student leaders from clubs and organizations are invited to attend.
The event gives them a chance to meet other students and bond, something that can be difficult on a commuter campus like AC, Atchley said. “It really makes a difference in their experience at AC,” she said.
A large portion of the group included members of the Student Government Association.
Brandon Garcia, a mass media major and SGA member, said he gained leadership skills, more patience and of course, new friends in addition to those with which he attended the retreat.
“I feel like it’s good to have close friends you already have, but making new friends is good, too,” Garcia said.
Other students said the retreat gave them a chance to experience a unique college experience while learning new skills.
“I liked meeting all the new people and learning all the leadership techniques,” said Mariah Glidewell, a social work major, SGA member and Badger Hearts co-secretary. “It was a great experience. I recommend people definitely start
coming.”
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