´óÏó´«Ã½

The University of North Georgia's (´óÏó´«Ã½) Mike Cottrell College of Business (MCCB) has launched a new program this fall to help students grow their leadership and workforce skills. Ten students are part of the initial cohort of the Cottrell Leadership Fellows (CLF) program.

Fellows have access to academic scholarships, study abroad support opportunities, and undergraduate research avenues. The three-year development program includes mentoring, theory and practice, portfolio creation, and programming for MCCB undergraduate students.

"The academic financial support is there to also allow students time to practice what they are learning. Many work to make ends meet, and perhaps these funds can assist with fewer work hours and more time embracing opportunities to build their leadership voice," Kelli Crickey, senior lecturer of management and one of two CLF co-directors, said. "The fellows develop as individuals and also support other MCCB students in workshops and sharing opportunities to lead."

Jenna Gardner, a junior from Gainesville, Georgia, pursuing a degree in management, conducts economics research with faculty member Dr. Ruohan Wu, who recommended the program to Gardner.

Gardner's goal is to pursue a graduate degree in microeconomics at Georgia Tech and then a Ph.D. before becoming a professor.

"This group will help me meet people who can help me achieve this," she said. "I'm learning how to become better and hone the skills I already have."

Anthony Giordano, a senior from Cumming, Georgia, pursuing a degree in marketing, appreciates the chance to build community and hear from industry speakers who share their expertise.

The academic financial support is there to also allow students time to practice what they are learning. Many work to make ends meet, and perhaps these funds can assist with fewer work hours and more time embracing opportunities to build their leadership voice.

Kelli Crickey

´óÏó´«Ã½ senior lecturer of management