Submitted to The Argo by Lydia Kai Adjetey

As the spring season approaches, anticipation builds for the second edition of the Inclusive Leadership Conference, organized by the Cultural Engagement Osprey (CEO) Interns at Stockton University. Following the resounding success of last year’s inaugural event. The new CEO Interns are once again working to create an immersive conference experience on April 5, 2024, in the Campus Center Theatre starting at 9:00 a.m.

The CEO Internship program was developed as an initiative to support the development of young leaders on campus, under the visionary direction of Ana Edmondson, Assistant Vice President of Student Transitions, Access, and Retention. After having the Compass Fund accepted, the internship, which is based on the university’s dedication to diversity and inclusive student success, gives students the opportunity to have practical experience in planning, marketing, and executing a
large-scale conference. “I wanted to support the university’s goal of increasing persistence and retention on campus because when students feel included, welcome, and a sense of belonging, they are more likely to succeed. So I came up with the CEO internship to create high impact opportunities for students to increase their sense of belonging , career readiness,  and leadership skills beyond college.” Edmondson said. Ten interns were selectively chosen from a field of more than thirty candidates. This year’s CEOs have been developing their leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking skills since the third week of September 2023.

Students began having professional staff come into their meetings each Friday, providing them with knowledge in important skills that are needed for planning and coordinating a conference. The interns have also been attending weekly programs and events that align with diversity, equity, inclusion, and professional development, such as the Deeper SPACES Retreat, Real Talk Tuesdays, and the Leadership Lunch series. 

The conference serves as a catalyst for innovative thinking and personal transformation, as seen by its combined focus on inspiration and instruction. Attendees, who include students from Stockton University and nearby community colleges and high schools, may anticipate leaving with tools, skills, and resources to strengthen their leadership in inclusivity within many areas of their lives and within the community.  

As the conference is quickly approaching, and CEO Interns are diligently working to promote an inclusive, diverse, and equitable culture at Stockton University and beyond. By working together, they are not only influencing the direction of leadership but also solidifying Stockton’s reputation as a leader in the advancement of social justice and inclusivity.

Mark your calendars and join us on April 5 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. as we embark on a journey of learning, growth, and empowerment. Together, we will inspire change, amplify voices, and pave the way for a more inclusive society.
For more information and updates on the conference, visit https://tr.ee/8JZ7AkSuN1 and follow their Instagram @su.inclusiveleadership.