On March 7th, 2010, fourteen Competitive Edge students of Broward College traveled to the capital of Florida to shadow state representatives and senators. Competitive Edge is a scholastic leadership program created by Dr. Willis Holcombe, Florida Chancellor of Community Colleges and Former President of Broward College. It provides students with the opportunity to observe, learn and put into practice leadership skills and qualities, for future leadership roles.
The first semester selected students attend a leadership class to study leadership theory and practice. They also shadow college leaders throughout the semester. The second semester, students take a one week trip during spring break to see our state’s leadership in action.
On this trip, we were able to attend a press conference where Governor Crist spoke about his role in the Florida legislative system. I was selected to work with Representative Skidmore, who represents the Boca Raton area. Working with her, I was able to see classroom theories put into action and how local and state representatives lead and serve the state of Florida.
We also had the privilege of visiting Dr. Willis Holcombe. Dr. Holcombe discussed the importance of open access education and the positive influence of the competitive edge program on the lives of students. I asked the chancellor and former president Broward College if there was any specific message he wanted me to take back to students at HSC, the Honors Institute, and the college in general. He answered “I want honors students to help their peers finish what they start.” He challenged us to help other students successfully make it to graduation.
This is a timely message for us at HSC because we have already embarked on this worthwhile endeavor. Three weeks ago, Edward Key (District Director of Enrollment Management) trained HSC members and students from North and South campuses to work with the Broward College Finish What You Start (FWYS) program. We enthusiastically accept Dr. Holcombe’s positive challenge and will continue to improve upon our commitment to help our community by helping our peers.
