Ready, Set, SOAR!

University of Northwestern is committed to raising leaders. The world is in need of individuals who are in pursuit of glorifying God and amplifying the gospel through their leadership and we are proud to have the opportunity to equip students and alumni to do exactly that. In addition to offering top-level, biblically-grounded courses, we are committed to providing our students with experiences and resources to equip and prepare them for the future. We are excited to offer UNW students the opportunity to intentionally invest in themselves on a day when they will be free from classes.

We are gearing up for the SOAR Student Leadership Conference which will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 in Knight Performance Hall at UNW. This event is for current students, alumni, and the general public who are interested in refining their leadership skills in addition to networking with others who are currently pursuing careers in their same field of study. Pricing information varies for current students, alumni, and the general public. 

This year, we are thrilled to have close to 100 alumni who are committed to the cause and will be volunteering their time to come back to campus with the sole purpose of connecting with those in attendance. We are thankful for the UNW community that is comprised of many facets of people who, collectively, provide a wealth of talents, resources, and connections. 

Participants will have the morning to explore the importance of personal leadership followed by an afternoon of breakout sessions with alumni Career Connectors and a professional fair. 

Personal Leadership Development

7:30-10:00 a.m.

The conference will begin with a Leadership Depth Charge—a continental breakfast, coffee, connection with others, and an interactive message from an alum who will explore the topic of self-leadership. Following that will be the main event which will include worship and three Eagle Talks (similar to TED Talks) given by three alum who will dive into three key elements of self-leadership.

Career Connection and Professional Exploration 

10:15-2:00 p.m.

Ten career-specific breakout sessions will facilitate marketplace connections between current students and alumni Career Connectors already established in their respective fields.

• Accounting & Finance
• Computing, Analytics, &Technology
• Business, Marketing, & Entrepreneurship 
• Government & Public Service 
• Education
• Engineering
• Health & Science (including Nursing & Psychology) 
• Media, Communication, & Creative Arts 
• Ministry & Bible
• Kinesiology & Sports Management 

This is a great chance for attendees to be in the same room with alums who are working professionals in a similar career field. Alumni are coming back to be a bridge, connecting students with real-life lessons and leadership insight. Because of the shared worldview, this focused time in smaller groups will be both encouraging and practical. 

The Professional Fair 

To close out the day, attendees will have access to a variety of professional resources. Exhibitors will showcase possible jobs and internships. A photographer will be on site to provide updated headshots, free of charge. Mock interviews, personality assessments, and resume review will be available during this time for anyone who is attending the event. 

We are thankful to our alumni community who has stepped in to help make this a worth-while event for both current and past students who are interested in further developing themselves for the future. If you are an alum and interested in volunteering to be a part of this conference, visit us here. 

We look forward to hosting this event and connecting our current students and other attendees with some of our alums who are willing and ready to offer their time, knowledge, talents, and connections to further equip others to become positive change agents in their communities. Let’s SOAR together!