MCC Program Advances Student Leadership Skills

In support of the Paul Sullivan Institute’s mission to develop future leaders, Middlesex Community College created the Leadership in Action program. In a cohort of their peers, students attend workshops and community events to strengthen their communication, professionalism, time management, self-awareness, decision-making and networking skills.

“Leadership in Action is a transformative one-year program designed to cultivate future leaders by fostering a strong sense of community, belonging and social impact,” said Linda Nara, MCC’s Coordinator of Student Leadership Programming. “Rooted in social change theory and inspired by Lowell’s Public Matters program, this experience empowers students to recognize their role in shaping their communities and take meaningful action. The cohort itself is intentionally diverse, giving students the opportunity to draw inspiration from one another and learn through shared experiences.”

Throughout the year, students also learn from and network with guest speakers. Cohorts are matched with professional mentors who support students in exploring career paths, according to Nara. Mentors share their knowledge, experiences and insights to help guide students as they consider their future goals.

Leadership in Action student Gianella Veas Salazar, of Pepperell, studies business administration at Middlesex. Through the program, she has had the opportunity to attend events such as MCC’s Trustees Dinner and Lowell Women’s Annual Breakfast where she built meaningful connections with community leaders and classmates. Excited to work with peers to make a difference in the classroom and community, she gained a better understanding of who she is and how she contributes to the community.

“The program definitely helped me become more confident when networking and having thoughtful conversations with others,” Salazar said. “Public speaking became much easier for me. I learned about leadership strategies, what it means to be a leader, and how to develop and deliver an elevator pitch. We also discussed topics related to vulnerable populations and ways to support them. One of the most meaningful experiences was participating in community healing sessions, where we could openly share our experiences and reflect on challenges happening in our lives and in the world around us.”

As a student at Middlesex, recent business administration graduate Heet Shah, of Lowell, participated in the Leadership in Action program to challenge himself to grow on a personal and professional level. One of his favorite experiences was the elevator pitch workshop where he learned how to feel more comfortable presenting himself in a professional setting. He encourages other MCC students to take advantage of the opportunity.

“[The Leadership in Action program] is a great platform to build leadership skills, expand your network, and step outside your comfort zone in a supportive environment,” Shah said. “It gave me opportunities to connect with other students and professionals, exchange ideas, and learn from different perspectives. It also encouraged me to become a more confident leader by improving my communication, collaboration, and ability to work effectively with others. I’m grateful for the experience and the opportunities it provided, and I believe many students could benefit from taking part in it. “

To participate in the program, students must be in their second semester and have completed two eligible leadership positions at MCC, including the Diversity Summit, Phi Theta Kappa, Student Government Association, or a student employment role. Students in the cohort must attend biweekly workshops to build their skills focusing on topics such as social justice, volunteerism, nonprofit organizations, legislative impact, and more. By completing the program, students have the chance to develop further as a paid Presidential Ambassador.

“This program serves as an important first step toward becoming a paid Presidential Ambassador,” Nara said. “The Presidential Ambassador Program is a high-impact leadership opportunity for students who aspire to represent MCC while developing strong professional, communication, and leadership skills. Presidential Ambassadors receive stipends in recognition of their service and contributions to the college community.”

For more information about MCC’s Leadership in Action program – including eligibility guidelines – email the Office of Student Engagement at StudentEngagement@middlesex.edu.