Fall 2025 Islander Leadership Academy

Young Islander leaders are taking steps toward brighter, more prepared futures by participating in this semester’s Islander Leadership Academy seminars. Hosted by the Islander Office of Student Excellence Experience (iSEE) and sponsored by Flint Hills Resources, the Islander Leadership Academy gives students an opportunity to learn soft skills that will help them succeed beyond college. Each seminar series is led by an industry professional, allowing students to learn from the real-world experiences of those who have gone before them.  

This semester two different topics were offered to students: The Power of Communication, led by Debbie Lindsey-Opel and Project Management Series, led by Rene Ramirez. Once a week for five weeks, students attended sessions to develop their project management and communication skills and begin growing the skills they will need as they become leaders on campus and in their futures.  

One student, Grace Williams ’27, a mechanical engineering major, demonstrated initiative and a commitment to leadership development by attending both seminar series. 

“My biggest take away from Islander Leadership Academy is that there is a method to become a great leader,” said Williams. “It is not just natural traits or talent; leadership is a skill you can learn and improve upon.”  

Williams learned great skills from both series, especially The Power of Communication, which focused on teaching students how to clearly and effectively convey their messages — even when nerves arise — by "hacking" their self-confidence.   

 “This series was engaging and powerful. I could feel the effect that Debbie Lindsey-Opel was having on me through her exceptional presentation skills,” Williams said. 

  Williams learned how to project self-confidence through communication and will take these skills she has learned with her as she progresses as a young leader here at Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi.