This weekend, the new Executive officers enjoyed an overnight stay in Preston, Connecticut in which they completed extensive lessons and training on leadership skills. In this training, they dove deep into thought about their true purpose as Executive officers, and their reasons “Why”. Van Augur, this year’s AVC Executive retreat leader shared experiences from his time on the Executive board and the lessons that he learned from them. He also stressed the importance of Simon Sinek’s message displayed in his TED Talk, “Start With Why”.
This ideal was created from looking at some of the most successful businesses and their leaders, and finding the one common aspect they all shared. Steve Jobs, the main example in Simon’s TED Talk, was not focused on an end result (making a highly profitable business); instead, Steve knew he could positively change the world of computing with his revolutionary technology and marketing skills. This reason was Steve’s “Why” in which he built Apple on.
Like Steve Jobs, Van stressed that the new Executive Board should “Start With Why” when they think about how they want to operate within their positions. This was the main focus of the retreat, and motivated the new Executive board to improve the chapter.
Along with the newfound motivation, the new Executive Board gained in-depth knowledge about each of their positions in order to minimize confusion and indecision within the fraternity.
Later in the retreat, the brothers were met by two additional retreat mentors, professor JW Wharton, and Andy Kelly. These men generously shared their unique experiences working with SigEp chapters, along with their best advice for the new Executive Board’s future.
Special thanks to brother Kevin Mitchell who is awaiting a Michelin Star after preparing a delightful steak dinner and dessert. Also thank you to Andy Kelly for cooking a delicious classic breakfast prior to the event’s conclusion.
Here’s to another successful year in CT Alpha, and another hard working Executive Board! VDBL!