Stevenson University’s fourth annual Leaderstang conference will take place in the Rockland Banquet Room on Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Leaderstang, a conference for aspiring leaders and students in university clubs and organizations, provides students with the opportunity to hear faculty members and speakers from around the country give advice about the necessary skills for becoming a successful leader.

This year’s conference theme is “Mission (I’m)possible.” Phillip Gatling Jr., assistant director of Student Activities, hopes that students realize that the “I’m” in the title highlights the importance of developing oneself before taking on other responsibilities.

The conference will include four sessions. During one of the sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to choose which speaker they would like to hear. Representatives from Wells Fargo will talk about budgeting tips, which may provide a unique perspective regarding the importance of being able to handle money as a leader.

Another session entitled, “The Balancing Act: Managing Academics and Leadership Responsibilities” will present students with important characteristics for balancing education and leadership positions simultaneously.

The keynote speaker will be revealed at the event, and the content of the talk will relate to the theme of “Mission (I’m)possible.”

Gatling said, “It is important to hear from people whom you aspire to be like because it helps you put things into perspective.”

Gatling also emphasized the importance of listening to fellow students about their success in clubs and organizations; this will allow students to build upon leadership skills in their extracurricular activities.

At the conclusion of the conference, students will be tasked with creating a 30-minute service project to give back to the community, providing attendees with a tangible outcome from the event. Following the service activity, there will be a mixer, allowing students to network with their classmates and the featured speakers.

Lauren Novsak, a junior business communication major, said, “Leaderstang is an excellent opportunity for students to connect and share ideas. I’ve attended the conference as a regular student and as a presenter and the experience is always empowering.”

The National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH) collaborates with Student Activities to recommend first and second year students who may benefit from the conference. Additionally, professors and advisors have the opportunity to refer students to the event.

Registration and check-in for the event will begin at 10:30 a.m., and the conference will immediately follow.