Western ND News

At Dickinson State University, leadership is not just a goal but a mindset. The Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program (TRHLP) is designed for students who are eager to develop as leaders and make an impact both on campus and beyond.

The program offers on-campus students the opportunity to challenge themselves academically and personally. Participants earn a Leadership Studies minor, a framed certificate, and a medallion to wear at commencement. However, the real benefit lies in the confidence, purpose, and experience they gain.

Students involved in the TRHLP engage in more than just academic classes. They volunteer, participate in study tours, present at national conferences, and connect with regional leaders. They also contribute to community service, support campus events, and engage in meaningful discussions about leadership.

Camille Poncin, an incoming biology major from Pray, Montana, expressed her enthusiasm about joining the program this fall. “I first looked at DSU because of golf, but the more I learned about the school, the more excited I got,” she said. “The TR Honors Program stood out because it pushes you to grow and meet people who care about their future too.”

Michelle Orton leads the program with a focus on helping students discover their strengths and lead with purpose. “We want students to be the best version of themselves,” she stated. “That means supporting others, working together, and leading by example.”

Financial support through scholarships from the DSU Heritage Foundation makes the program accessible for qualifying students.

The TRHLP emphasizes more than just academic achievements or building resumes; it focuses on creating a meaningful future and stepping into leadership roles with sincerity. Students are not merely preparing for future leadership—they are actively leading now.