De Porres Center for Ethical Leadership
Paula Dias, Ed.D., Director, Mission, Leadership and Inclusion
Chery Prats, M.S., Coordinator, Ethical and Inclusive Leadership
Thompson Hall 115
305-899-4782
e-mail: leadership@barry.edu
Barry University prepares graduates to become 21st century leaders, advocates for social change, and active citizens in their communities. The de Porres Center for Ethical Leadership (DCEL) empowers students to lead through a social justice lens that is grounded in Barry University's Mission and Core Commitments. Opportunities in leadership education, mentoring, conferences, speakers, and retreats are offered each semester to build professional skills, foster ethical decision-making, and inspire students to get involved in organizations and causes they are passionate about. All students are invited to discover their passion and leadership potential through DCEL programs.
Emerging Leaders Program
Undergraduate students are invited to participate in a leadership certificate program during the fall semester, which includes self-discovery, team building, and reflection. This cohort program introduces students to the Social Change Model of Leadership Development through fun, hands-on sessions featuring guest speakers and Peer Mentors. Once participants complete the ELP certificate, students are encouraged to apply for campus leadership positions such as Student Government, Resident Assistant, Service Fellows, Ambassadors, O-Team, and others as well as develop on-going mentoring relationships with upperclassmen, university staff, and faculty.
Ethical Leadership Conferences
Annual conferences provide students with opportunities to explore their leadership potential, interact with peers and presenters, and develop a greater understanding of how they can make positive contributions in the world. Ethical Leadership Conferences feature keynote speakers and breakout sessions relevant to both established and emerging student leaders.
Leadership Adventure
Offered during the spring semester, this hands-on, experiential program challenges students though individual and group initiatives. Leadership styles and strengths are explored through the lens of reflection, teambuilding, communication, and strategic decision-making.
National Society for Leadership and Success
The National Society of Leadership and Success is a collegiate organization that focuses on goal fulfillment, community involvement and leadership. NSLS is the nation's largest leadership honor society in which students are selected for membership based on academic standing. Members experience a step-by-step program to build their leadership skills and are inducted on campus upon completion.
Wine-ing Down: Senior Leadership Night
Graduating seniors are invited to a night of reflection, discussion, and celebration. Wine-ing Down is an opportunity for seniors to understand their strengths, reflect on their past leadership experiences amongst fellow classmates, and learn how they can use their leadership skills beyond Barry University.
Inclusion Programs
Through a series of special celebrations, cultural programs, and heritage month commemorations, the De Porres Center promotes an inclusive community for all students, faculty and staff. Examples of annual events include Hispanic Heritage Month, Black History Month, Pride Week, Women’s Summit, and First Generation College Student Day.