Alpha Phi Omega teaches us through our principles of Leadership, that we are the architects of our own ambitions and that each of us has the opportunity to develop ourselves to be whatever we seek to be. In the areas of leadership, from within our own Fraternity, people are transformed from followers to leaders sometimes without really being aware of the development. It can happen gradually, or it might happen overnight - today a follower, tomorrow a leader.
Realistically, leadership is a matter of development, Alpha Phi Omega develops leaders, and we are very proud of that. As we grow, we seek qualities of leadership, and throughout our lives, we pursue the development of those qualities and the development of other "well-rounding" qualities. Through our leadership development program in Alpha Phi Omega, we are able to develop ourselves. And, as we aspire to greater things in life, we become aware of limiting factors...that we can't control the external forces that shape our destiny until we control and develop what we have inside of us. We discover our own talents and strive to better our skills. We study, we learn, we practice.
Once we do these things for ourselves, we learn to externalize our qualities and in the real sense, we are developing our leadership abilities. We become aware that Alpha Phi Omega is showing us the importance of leadership. Alpha Phi Omega is the tool that provides an atmosphere where brothers can develop and learn. Together we make and provide tremendous opportunities for our brothers to make meaningful contributions to the lives of those with whom we come in contact.
Leadership is a skill which can be learned. Recognizing that, Alpha Phi Omega has organized a program to aid brothers to do so. Leadership Development Committee is always developing new seminar ideas and other materials for use by chapters. There is an extensive program offered at every National Convention. Materials have also been developed for use by your Sectional Chair and other volunteers.
Of course, none of these programs will help you unless you decide to take advantage of them. Attend your next Sectional and/or Regional Conference and participate in the seminars which are presented. If your chapter does not have any of the written materials on hand, ask the secretary to contact the National Office for them.
If you have any questions or suggestions about anything in the area of leadership development, write to the Leadership Development Chair in care of the National Office.