Over 200 high school and university students from across Illinois will gather at Southern Illinois University Carbondale from June 28-30 for the 2024 Illinois TRIO Student Leadership Conference. This event celebrates the 50th anniversary of the state chapter of the TRIO Programs, which support disadvantaged students. The conference, themed "Leadership Renaissance: Bridging the Past, Building the Future," aims to inspire innovation, drive impactful change, and shape future leaders.
Participants will engage in various enriching activities, including workshops, panel discussions, and sessions with guest speakers. These activities are designed to help students hone their leadership skills, enhance strategic thinking, build relationships, collaborate effectively, set goals, leverage their strengths, and navigate challenges. Victoria Taylor, assistant director of TRIO Student Support Services at SIU, emphasized the event's significance in celebrating the accomplishments of TRIO programs and fostering a supportive community.
The conference kicks off on June 28 with a welcome event featuring games like bowling, billiards, and e-sports at the Student Center from 5-7 p.m. On June 29, participants will attend panel discussions from 2:45-3:30 p.m. at the Student Center River Room, followed by group activities and an ice cream truck visit from 3:45-4:45 p.m. The day will conclude with a dance and karaoke night at Grinnell Hall from 9-11 p.m.
The event wraps up on June 30 with a continental breakfast at Neely Hall from 9-10 a.m., after which participants will pack up and head home. Attendees will also have the chance to explore the SIU campus and local businesses throughout the weekend. For more information, contact Victoria Taylor at taylor@siu.edu or 618-203-1820.
