Bulldog Leadership Camp Prepares Student Leaders for a Year of Service and Success
While many students are still enjoying the final days of summer, Jarvis Christian University’s student leaders have already returned to campus with a purpose. Bulldog Leadership Camp brought together resident assistants, orientation leaders, student ambassadors, peer mentors, student government leaders, and other campus leaders for an intensive week of leadership development, team building, and preparation ahead of the Fall 2026 semester.
The annual leadership experience equips students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to serve their peers while fostering a welcoming campus environment from the moment new students arrive.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in workshops focused on servant leadership, communication, conflict resolution, campus resources, student engagement, and the values that define the Jarvis experience. The program also provided opportunities for team-building activities designed to strengthen relationships among student leaders before they begin welcoming hundreds of new and returning students to campus.
Dr. Kishia James, Vice President for Student Affairs, said Bulldog Leadership Camp is about much more than preparing students for specific leadership roles—it is about cultivating leaders who are committed to serving others and positively influencing the campus community.
“Bulldog Leadership Camp is an investment in our student leaders and, ultimately, in every student who calls Jarvis home,” said Dr. James. “Our student leaders set the tone for the academic year. We want them to lead with integrity, compassion, confidence, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed. When they are prepared, our entire campus benefits.”
As one of the first groups to return to campus each year, Bulldog Leadership Camp participants play an essential role in ensuring a smooth transition for incoming students. From assisting with move-in and orientation to providing mentorship throughout the academic year, these student leaders serve as ambassadors for the university’s mission of educating the head, heart, and hand.
Mrs. Daniec Adams, Coordinator for Student Development and Strategic Retention, emphasized that the week is designed to help students understand that leadership is rooted in relationships and intentional service.
“Our goal is to equip students with the tools, confidence, and mindset to make a positive difference from day one,” said Mrs. Adams. “Bulldog Leadership Camp creates opportunities for students to grow as leaders, strengthen their connections with one another, and recognize that every interaction they have can shape another student’s experience at Jarvis.”
The week also emphasized collaboration across student organizations and leadership teams, encouraging students to recognize that their individual roles contribute to a larger purpose. Whether serving in residence life, student government, campus programming, or peer mentoring, each participant shares the responsibility of creating an engaging, supportive, and Christ-centered campus community.
Dr. James believes the leadership lessons learned during Bulldog Leadership Camp will continue to shape participants long after the week concludes.
“Leadership is not about titles—it’s about service,” she said. “Our goal is for every student leader to return to their respective roles ready to encourage others, solve problems, build community, and represent Jarvis Christian University with excellence. They are helping create an environment where every student feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to achieve their goals.”
As Bulldog Leadership Camp concludes, these student leaders now turn their attention toward welcoming the Class of 2030 and returning Bulldogs to campus. Their preparation reflects Jarvis Christian University’s continued commitment to developing leaders who will make meaningful contributions both on campus and in the communities they will one day serve.
With a renewed sense of purpose, stronger relationships, and a shared commitment to service, Jarvis’s student leaders stand ready to help make the 2026–2027 academic year one of growth, engagement, and success for the entire Bulldog family.