Young Voices Engaged and Empowered at Local Conference
Fourth annual Student Leadership Conference brings young leaders to Staples, Minn.
Over 60 high school students from central Minnesota schools attended Sourcewell's Student Leadership Conference on Oct. 27, 2026, at Central Lakes College – Staples campus.
Schools identified students involved in, or emerging into, leadership roles in student council, classrooms, sports teams, or extracurricular clubs. The event focused on how young leaders can explore their individual leadership strengths and use those strengths to make an impact in their schools, future careers, and communities.
The conference explored the concept of leadership as a journey. In addition to GiANT — an international program that explores leadership voices and strengths — the conference also showed students how to move from understanding themselves as leaders to practicing that leadership.
“This conference is one of a kind,” said Crysta Blake, Sourcewell’s Student Event Specialist. “It’s given them space to recognize their leadership characteristics, practice them intentionally, and see how to carry their leadership into their communities…and whatever comes next.”
Learn more about local student events at mn.sourcewell.org/education/student-programs
Presenters and topics included:
Dr. Kendra Dodd | Your Voice is Your Power
Your voice matters: Make it real. In this session, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your power to shape democracy, learn how to connect history to today’s civic action, and leave with a simple framework for initiating positive change. Take up the mantle and become an authentic, informed voice of reflective patriotism!
Jane Peterson | Lead with Influence
Your voice is essential to your team’s success. In this session, you’ll explore different ways to communicate and listen as a leader. You’ll discover how to lead with integrity, hold your team accountable, and be a servant leader. Learn how your thoughts, words, and actions impact your chance of success.
Hallie Pond | Leading with Purpose: Core Values in Action
In this fast-paced workshop, students will uncover their core personal values and explore how authentic leadership begins with service. Through interactive group exercises and self-reflection, participants will connect their individual strengths to real-world community challenges, leaving with a clear personal commitment to lead with purpose in their schools and communities.