In an exhilarating first-ever Junior ELI full-day event, held at The Monument on October 13th, 24 8th-grade students embarked on a day filled with learning and fun. Throughout the event, the students delved into four key themes: communication, decision-making, teamwork, and service.
Under the guidance of ELI Alumni Austin Eichacker (Ketel Thorstenson), Joel Hermann (Black Hills Community Bank), and Ingrid Reuter (First Interstate Bank), the students participated in a variety of interactive exercises. Engaging in real-life scenarios, they honed their communication skills through non-verbal activities and networking sessions. They even crafted thoughtful thank-you notes and spontaneous 1-minute speeches with a mere 5-minute prep time!
The CEO of The Monument, Craig Balzter, provided an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of The Summit Arena, offering students a glimpse into the world of significant decision-making. Exploring the impact of their decisions on the community, students gained valuable insights into leadership and decision-making processes.
Guests from Rapid City's professional hockey team, Rush, highlighted the significance of teamwork in the real world. Led by Jared Reid (Rush - President), Drew Blevins (Rush - Manager of Community Relations & Broadcasting), and Peter Drikos (Rush - Assistant Coach), the students ventured into the inner workings of teamwork – the locker rooms – and even stepped onto the ice, bringing the essence of teamwork to life.
Sheriff Mueller and Officer Tim Doyle from the Rapid City Police Department emphasized the crucial role of community service. An inspiring story from the Rapid City Central High School student who initiated the Backpack Program, Cody Pipe On Head, showcased the power of individual initiatives. ELI Alum Kerry Lassaux (SEQUEL) then challenged the students to brainstorm their own service activities, encouraging them to create ways to serve and uplift their community.
With laughter, enthusiasm, and an eagerness to learn, these students absorbed essential life skills and discovered joy in the process. The event was not just an educational experience but a day filled with excitement and fun, reminding each participant that learning can be a thrilling adventure.
Background:
Leadership Rapid City (LRC) was revised in 2021 and is now known as the Elevate Leadership Institute (ELI). The 2021 revision created the opportunity to also revamp the Junior LRC program, now known as Junior ELI.
In 2023, Graduates of the 2021 and 2022 ELI classes volunteered to assist with the new Junior ELI program, which involved identifying the program goals and objectives, along with deciding who the ideal Junior ELI participants are: 8th graders.
Thanks to Black Hills Energy for sponsoring lunch and First Interstate Bank for sponsoring breakfast.