Bozeman — A leadership development training class for incoming Montana State University freshmen that will allow an opportunity to connect with classmates while discussing and practicing leadership skills is now available through MSU’s Leadership Fellows Program.

Leadership Explorations (UC 291) is available on first-come-first-served basis to 45 entering MSU freshmen, according to Carmen McSpadden, director of MSU’s Leadership Fellows Program.

“The requirements are simple yet powerful: providing students with the opportunity to meet university leaders, discuss leadership theory in small groups with faculty mentors, and learn insights from student leaders who will help them get involved,” McSpadden said.  “We are thrilled to be able to provide this special offering to incoming first-year MSU students.”

The course offers leadership development training on Aug. 23 and 24, with two follow-up evening sessions on the evenings of Sept. 29 and Nov. 29. The course will include a combination of short presentations, collaborative activities and small group discussions, she said.

Course participants will be allowed to check in to their residence halls Aug. 23, a day early, she said.

The courses will be taught by McSpadden, Deidre Combs and Dave Meldahl, who are both MSU Leadership Fellows Program instructors and noted management consultants.

McSpadden said students may register online for UC 291 as they would for any other course.

“I suggest registering as soon as possible since this a unique opportunity, and we may also be welcoming one of the largest freshmen classes at MSU,” added McSpadden.

Additional information about UC 291, or the MSU Leadership Fellows Certificate Program, may be found at www.montana.edu/lf or by emailing cmcspadden@montana.edu.