A Qualitative Study of the LeaderShape Program- The Ways in which LeaderShape Influences the Development of Student Leaders

?Student leadership development programs are an emerging topic of conversationwithin the field of student affairs. This paper uses the personalnarratives of five recent graduates of the LeaderShape program to considerstudent perceptions of the effects of this program. A literature review discussesrecent publications in the field of student leadership development. Theinterview data collected in this study confirm the findings of this recentresearch including generally positive leadership experiences improved racialrelations and the importance of small group interactions. Additionally thisthesis includes a cross-case analysis and discussion section that presentseveral themes that emerged from participants' narratives. Recommendationsfor future research and practice associated with student leadership developmentare also presented. This book would be beneficial to anyone workingwith the LeaderShape program or other collegiate leadership programs. Bothstudent affairs practitioners as well as college students interested in leadershipwill benefit from the themes and research in this work.