THE LEADERSHIP AUGUSTA - CLASS OF 2001 HELD ITS DISCOVERY WEEKEND

The Leadership Augusta- Class of 2001 held its Discovery Weekend, an opportunity for the class members to forge friendships and grow as a team, on August 26-27 at Augusta State University and the Gravatt Conference Center in Aiken. The event was facilitated by Dr. Constance J. Prichard of The Prichard Group.

The first day, SIMSOC Saturday, was a day-long exercise in planning, problem solving, and communication skills. The group sought to achieve both individual and group goals, which often times conflicted. This exercise reflected the very real challenges faced in society, revealing to participants a lesson in working together, compromise and empathy.

-Recollections from Natalie Ferguson, Principal Engineer, Westinghouse Savannah River Company, member of the Leadership Augusta Class of 2001:

Don't Worry...We've Got This Under Control
SIMSOC Saturday, a day spent in a simulated society, ran the gamut of emotions from joy to exasperation. Some participants were apprehensive; many just wanted it to be over. Nearly all were confused. But everyone wanted it to be a success.

Participants struggled to understand the rules and goals of the simulated society as they found jobs, food, communicated with each other, traveled, and struggled to survive. Promises were made. Deals were brokered. Leaders emerged. Political parties vied for votes. Everyone seemed to have an "angle." The eager-to-work "have-nots" were frustrated when pay seemed eternally late. Rumors of unrest began grow. The wealthy hoarded everything they had...or did they?

We didn't have ANYTHING to work with...then we realized, WE were assets. Eventually we came to the same realization - we're all in this boat together, that we would swim, bail, or SINK together. Suddenly light bulbs (some reluctantly) came on. We knew that temporary sacrifice would turn into long-term success for all.

The real world is a complex magnification of what we experienced in SIMSOC and we left with new insights on making a positive impact. By the end of the day the Leadership Augusta Class of 2001 had made its maiden voyage, navigated some rough storms, and sailed safely into harbor...with everyone alive and well.

The second day of Leadership Augusta's Discovery Weekend was a Ropes Course, a day of "challenge by choice" involving both individual and group challenges that fostered teamwork and enabled class members to forge friendships. This was important experience for the class members as they embarked on a year-long journey to learn about the city of Augusta and themselves, while developing valuable leadership skills.

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