Guilford College Hosts Ethical Leadership Conference Focusing on Quaker Values and Diverse Leadership

Guilford College hosted its fourth annual Ethical Leadership Conference, titled “Getting Back to Guilford’s Roots,” on Saturday, October 25, in Founders Hall. The event, open to all but tailored for students in leadership programs, brought together participants from the Ethical Leadership Fellows Scholarship, the Bonner Program, the Quaker Leadership Scholars Program, and the Honors Program. Some students were required to attend, while others were encouraged to participate.

Isaac Cunningham, who has attended seven such conferences during his time at Guilford, noted the value of the event in connecting students from different years and programs. The conference serves as one of the few annual opportunities for students from various leadership initiatives to interact and learn together, despite the long duration of the event.

Dr. Mark Justad, the keynote speaker, addressed the audience in the Gilmer Room, reflecting on Guilford’s ethical foundations and how students can apply these principles in daily life. He invited attendees to stand in a circle, hold hands, and consider who was present and who was absent, encouraging them to create space for those not included.

McKenna Merritt, a junior new to both Bonner and ELF, described the experience as unique, noting the philosophical reflection it prompted at an early hour. The conference featured a structured schedule with three sessions, allowing students to engage with different themes throughout the day.

Session A, “Serving and Leading Diverse Groups,” led by Rhiannon Kelly, focused on effective service to diverse communities. Eli Troop, a second-year member of Bonner and ELF, appreciated Kelly’s insights into serving immigrant families despite cultural or belief differences.

Session B, “Quakerism and Ethical Leadership,” led by Gwen Erickson, explored how Quaker values can inform ethical leadership. Students then had an hour-long lunch break before selecting from two afternoon sessions: “Social and Emotional Learning and Leadership” with LaTrayal Adams or “Policy Analysis and Equity” with Dr. Raketa Thomas.

Each year, the conference continues to evolve based on student feedback, reflecting its commitment to growth and adaptation. The event underscores the importance of ethical leadership and community engagement, aligning with the Quaker tradition of seeking justice and serving others.

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