I am proud to be associated with such a fine group of individuals. We have grown as friends, classmates and leaders. I believe the most encouraging aspect of the McConnell Center is that we are surrounded by people who challenge us to grow. We learn about leadership in the classroom and in books, in seminars and in lectures, but none of this means anything if it isn't applied in the "real world."
The McConnell Center provides scholars with the opportunity to practice many different aspects of leadership. One of the most exciting ways is through a new program that will begin next year. Scholars will be encouraged to host local leaders in the Center and organize the event themselves. We will be responsible for developing an idea, contacting the necessary people, making the proper arrangements and publicizing the event; every aspect of planning the event will fall squarely on the scholars. I hope it will provide each of us a glimpse of the realities of the world after college.
Perhaps the most important interactions that I have with McConnell Scholars occur in other aspects of campus and community life. Scholars are involved in the highest levels of Student Government, Greek Life, College Republicans and College Democrats, service organizations, musical groups and much more. The McConnell Center can offer many valuable things. I've met Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Chief Justice John Roberts, Senator John McCain and the former President of India Abdul Kalam, to name a few. I've learned from educators from all over the world. I've had the opportunity to learn about areas of Kentucky that I would have never even visited otherwise. And I have yet to experience the signature study abroad in China. However, all of these things wouldn't have made such a significant impact if I didn't experience it with 39 other great men and women from the Commonwealth of Kentucky. I find that most of my growth can be attributed not to the programs, not to the prominent speakers, not to the books, but to the scholars with whom I interact everyday.
- John Weber