North Central College juniors attend national, state leadership conferences

Two North Central College juniors were chosen to represent the College in collegiate leadership conferences.

Elizabeth Novak and Monica Degenhardt attended the National Conference for College Women Student Leaders at the University of Maryland in College Park, May 30-June 1. They were selected by the College’s Leadership, Ethics and Values (LEV) program to participate in the conference, which is organized in part by the American Association of University Women.

Novak also was selected to attend the NEW Leadership Illinois conference in Chicago, June 3-7. Participation in the conference involves a competitive application process, and the program accepts only a select few college juniors and seniors who are interested in working in public service.

“I feel honored to attend the NEW Leadership conference,” Novak said. “It’s an amazing opportunity that will help refine my leadership and political voice. As a future teacher, it will be great to learn how to advocate for my students.”

Novak, of Aurora, is majoring in elementary education with minors in reading and history and ultimately wants to work as a school principal.

Degenhardt, of Lisle, is majoring in organizational communication with minors in psychology and leadership. Upon graduation, she hopes to pursue a master’s degree in higher education administration and take on a role in the field professionally.

Novak and Degenhardt have been active members of the student body, in particular the LEV program. Both are members of Blue Key Honor Society for leadership; Novak is president.

As the College’s mission statement suggests, North Central is dedicated to developing “informed, involved, principled and productive” leaders, and Degenhardt recommends that students seek out ways to enrich their education and get involved. “Faculty and staff can see potential in students and are able to recommend different opportunities for students to grow and expand upon their skills.”