with Luke Lin

How do we as emerging leaders begin to transform the culture? Isn't it an impossible task? It certainly seems to be the case, especially in our world today. However, just because a task seems impossible, it doesn't mean that our responsibility as Christians to be Christians is abated.

We must be people of faith, of hope, and of love! We must rise to the challenge before us and begin to change the landscape before us. Little by little, bit by bit, piece by piece, and person by person, our efforts to transform culture by being people of faith can and will make a difference. That's what the Gospel message about the Kingdom of heaven communicates to us! Just like a mustard seed planted in the ground, our efforts to love others and to stand for integrity and faith may seem to be ineffective, but over time, those efforts bloom into something grand that changes the entire horizon.

The articles we feature this month highlight ways in which the culture has perpetuated the ways of the world. As we learn to recognize the messages we receive, we begin to see our responsibility as people of faith to truly be salt and light in a dark world. This realization is one that impacts every area of your being - including how you interact with others, and how others portray you as well. Leaders, remember that people are watching, and people are following. As people follow you, where will you lead them? What will you do, and how will you act? May we be faithful in spreading the ways and message of love, truth, and hope to those around us by doing what we can, wherever we are, with whatever we have.

Being a graduate of SLU 201, I strengthened leadership skills that I never knew I possessed. Attending SLU gave me confidence in my abilities and talents along with a clear view of my calling. This passion and desire to live life to the fullest has been imprinted on who I am today.

Washington 201 focused on history and the foundation of our country. History is what has paved the way for the future, thus bringing out a thankfulness and appreciation to those who have allowed us our freedoms. Although the rights and privileges brought to me as a woman were touching, the privileges I have as a Christian are a joy with many blessings and yet somewhat of a disappointment due to society. Day in and day out people are trying to persecute Christians and take away our rights to worship the one true God. Taking away our rights in schools and public facilities is disappointing and an absolute outrage. This alone brought about my desire to make a difference at my school, youth group, work place, and with my friendships; for when my children are at my current age and attending high school they will be the ones to lead prayer and continue to up hold the rights of Christians.

I also learned that "it is at the lighthouse where the light shines the brightest," for this quote was the turning point in my life. Where was my light shining? And who was my light attracting? The desire and passion rose in me to become a great leader, a leader that would touch lives of the youth of America, much like Jay Strack. My parents are wonderful leaders at their work and in our community and they have encouraged my siblings (who attended 101 and 201 with me) and my walk with Christ. Since they are the ones who first lit the light of our family's lighthouse, the desire I now have to kindle the flame is overwhelming.

SLU 201 was a crucial turning point in my life. I received courage in my faith and a burning desire to want to be a great leader, changing the lives of those around me. SLU gave me a jump start on life.

Lauren Nolton is a graduate of SLU 201.

In addition to our other expansions, we are introducing a new week of SLU during the fall - October 10-13, 2005. If you missed being a part of our summer experience, come for our Fall week! Click here to register online.

Don't miss LEADERSHIP ROCKS this year! This 2-day leadership event for students will be hosted in 2 cities this year - Orlando, FL and Dallas, TX. We've designed this experience to help you take your leadership skills to the next level. Our event speakers include Dr. Jay Strack, David  Nasser, and Brent Crowe. You won't want to miss this! Check it out online here.

The SLU 2006 Dates are now Available! Click here to see the schedule of dates for next summer, and get a head start on planning your leadership experience!

Have you visited our SLU Store lately? We've given it a make over! Visit our new SLU Store online!

Are you interested in working with Student Leadership University? We are looking for a full-time Executive Administrative Assistant with qualified skills, education, and work experience. If you are interested, read more about this opening here.

Don't forget that most SLU information is available online through our website at www.studentleadership.net. We want to continue hearing from you! Let us know how you've been putting leadership into practice. It is always a blessing to hear from you. Our toll-free number is 1-888-260-2900.