Community-Engaged Leadership

There are a variety of ways you can get involved withthe Office of Community-Engaged Leadership:

Get Involved as a First Year Student

• Trailhead Experience (opens in new tab) - This three-day program held each August prepares incoming first-year and transfer students for life at Appalachian State by creating connections, building community, and developing their capacity to lead. Applications to participate open in the spring semester.
• Plemmons Leadership Scholars (opens in new tab) - This cohort-based, four-year scholarship program empowers students to critically examine leadership systems and structures, take action on issues and causes that matter to them, serve as advocates alongside peers and community members, and contribute to lasting change in groups and organizations they are a part of.

Attend a Workshop

We host regular workshops to help students learn more about leadership and build upon their own capacities to lead and serve. Register for LEAD Workshops on Engage (opens in new tab).

Search for Service

Many nonprofit organizations across the High Country rely on the compassion and skills of volunteers to work towards their mission and need a few extra hands in areas such as: administrative support, event management, social media outreach, or hosting donation drives. Stop by our office and our staff can help talk through some of the options that fit a particular time or cause close to your heart, or consult our database of community partners. Ongoing, time-sensitive needs are compiled for your convenience in our Volunteer Opportunity List (opens in new tab). Our Community Fellows host regular service outings with small groups in the immediate Boone area.

Serve at a Sponsored Event

Our office hosts a variety of events throughout the year in need of volunteers. Traditional annual events like Don't Throw It Away or the MLK Challenge may require individual or group volunteers to fulfill their missions and ensure a successful day of service. Event updates and volunteer calls are shared on our social media.

Go on a Service Trip

Are you interested in taking your education beyond the classroom? Consider an Alternative Service Experience (opens in new tab) and explore a variety of social issues while working with communities across the globe. ASE coordinates local, domestic and global experiences that provide students with an opportunity to serve, learn, explore, and make a difference during their breaks from school. Each trip is led by two Peer Leaders (undergraduate students) and one Learning Partner (faculty/staff member).

Join Our Team

If you'd like to be more closely involved with our office, consider applying for a student leader position. We have several student teams that coordinate events and engage the campus community in leadership and service intiatives.