Highline College’s Center for Leadership & Service aims to provide students with invaluable opportunities to develop their leadership skills and actively contribute to the college community. 

Led by the dedicated efforts of Jeff Kurnick, the center “plan[s] events, programs, leadership conferences, and retreats, centered around our students and empower them to make Highline what they want it to be,” said Kurnick, a passionate advocate for student empowerment.

Located on the Highline College campus, the Center for Leadership & Service operates Monday through Friday, offering a wide range of services and support to students. Whether it be through workshops, mentoring programs, or individual coaching sessions, the center strives to equip students with the necessary tools and guidance to expand their leadership potential.

The establishment of the Center for Leadership & Service stems from a deep-rooted belief in the potential of every student at Highline College. By creating an environment that encourages collaboration, growth, and effective leadership, the center aims to empower students to shape Highline into the institution they envision.

“We want our students to feel empowered to utilize student funds for things that students appreciate,” said Kurnick, who is a part of the effort to offer various leadership roles within the college. 

Furthermore, the Center for Leadership & Service has designed a comprehensive program that allows students to plan events, including workshops, seminars, and conferences. These events provide a platform for students to showcase their organizational skills and creativity while addressing important issues that resonate within the college community.

“We offer paid student positions for students to take on leadership roles within the community whether that be student government, global student ambassadors or marketing outreach and design teams or clubs consultants,” said Kurnick. These roles not only enhance students’ personal growth but also foster a sense of responsibility and community engagement.

“We offer different types of events for anyone. We also offer spaces for people to explore their own interests with student clubs and organizations,” said Kurnick.

One of the center’s highlights is the annual Leadership Conference Retreats. These retreats serve as a catalyst for personal and leadership development, bringing together students from diverse backgrounds to exchange ideas, learn from experienced professionals, and foster long-lasting connections.

The story behind the creation of the Center for Leadership & Service is one of recognizing the need for a dedicated space where student leadership and service can flourish. Highline College has long valued the importance of student involvement and recognized the transformative power of student-driven initiatives. With the establishment of this center, the college has taken a significant step towards amplifying these values and enhancing the college experience for its students.

The center’s inception has been made possible through the collaboration of various campus departments, faculty, and student leaders who share a common vision of fostering leadership and service. By harnessing the collective expertise and passion of the Highline College community, the Center for Leadership & Service promises to be a hub for growth, innovation, and positive change.

As Highline College continues to prioritize student success, the Center for Leadership & Service stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to providing students with the resources they need to thrive both academically and personally. Through its multifaceted offerings and unwavering support, the center aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders who will shape not only their college experience but also the world beyond.

For more information about the Highline College Center for Leadership & Service and the opportunities it provides, students are encouraged to visit the center website or reach out to Geomarc Panelo and his team during operating hours.

For more information about the Center for Leadership & Service visit: https://cls.highline.edu/ or contact the center at: (206) 592-3536 or cls@highline.edu