Social Change Model

The Social Change Model of Leadership comprises the three areas:
-Individual Values
-Group Values
-Community Values 

The model is designed for each value to be inclusive and a continual learning experience that creates an uneasy tension among the three value areas.  The Social Change Model describes leadership as a process and not a position.  Leadership is working with others, and is inclusive for all students.  We invite you to explore each of the values described below.

Positive Change

Change, as the hub and ultimate goal of the Social Change Model, change gives meaning and purpose to the other C's.  Change means improving the status quo, creating a better world, and demonstrating a comfort with transition and ambiguity in the process of change.

Individual Values

Consciousness of Self this value means being aware of personal beliefs, values, attitudes, and emotions.  Self-awareness, conscious mindfulness, introspection, and continual personal reflection are foundational elements of the leadership process. 

Congruence refers to thinking, feeling, and behaving with consistency, genuineness, authenticity, and honesty.  Personal congruence and consciousness of self are interdependent. 

Commitment is an intrinsic passion, energy, and purposeful investment toward action.  Commitment without self-awareness can be easily misdirected. Commitment is also the energy to serve the group and its goals.  

Group Values

Collaboration is working with others in a common effort, sharing responsibility, authority, and accountability.  Collaboration multiplies a group's effort through collective contributions, capitalizing on the diversity and strengths of the relationships and interconnects of individuals involved in the change process. 

Common Purpose means working with others in a common effort.  It facilitates the group's ability to engage in collective analysis of the issues at hand and the task to be undertaken. 

Controversy with Civility Within in a diverse group, it is inevitable that differing viewpoints will exist.  Multiple perspectives need to be understood, integrated, and bring value to the group.  Civility is respect for others, a willingness to hear each other's views, and the exercise of restraint in criticizing the views and actions of others. 

Community Values

Citizenship occurs when one becomes responsibly connected to the community in which one resides by actively working toward change to benefit others through care, service, social responsibility, and community involvement.  

*Sources: Leadership for a Better World and The Handbook for Student Leadership Development