Student Leadership Institute Marks 15 Years with Transformative Retreat at Victory Ranch

Thirty Southwest Tennessee Community College students spent three days immersed in leadership development at Victory Ranch near Boliver, Tenn., where the 15th annual Student Leadership Institute (SLI) retreat challenged them to reflect, grow and prepare for their future careers.

The Student Leadership Institute is a yearlong program designed to help students strengthen their leadership skills, build confidence and apply those lessons in academic, professional and community settings.

This year’s retreat, held Sept. 26–28, combined workshops, team-building activities and personal testimonies from leaders who have navigated their own paths to success. Students engaged in discussions on resilience, self-awareness and the importance of leading with integrity—skills that organizers say are essential for both career advancement and community impact.

Southwest President Dr. Tracy D. Hall addressed the group, sharing her personal journey and the values that have guided her leadership. She spoke candidly about the challenges she faced growing up and how her experiences shaped her philosophy of rootedness, resilience, presence and audacity.

“The best leaders are not those who seek power, but those who know who they are and lead with purpose,” Hall told students. “Leadership is about having a personal mission and the courage to act on it, no matter the circumstances.”

Dr. Jose da Silva, vice president for student affairs, also delivered a powerful testimony. Born in Brazil and raised in the United States as a first-generation college student, da Silva described the obstacles he overcame—from language barriers to financial hardships—and how those experiences continue to influence his leadership style.

“My story is not unique,” da Silva said. “Many of you are first-generation students, balancing jobs, family and school. What matters is perseverance and the belief that your goals should always be beyond your grasp.”

Students said the retreat offered both inspiration and practical tools. Group activities encouraged them to identify their own leadership values, while outdoor challenges at Victory Ranch emphasized teamwork and problem-solving.

For many, the highlight was hearing directly from Hall and da Silva, whose stories underscored the idea that leadership is not about titles but about service, authenticity and vision.

“Listening to Dr. Hall and Dr. da Silva made me realize that leadership is about more than just being in charge,” said sophomore participant Jasmine Carter. “It’s about showing up for others and staying true to yourself, even when it’s hard.”

SLI has graduated hundreds of students since its founding. Alumni of the program have gone on to leadership roles in student government, community organizations, and professional careers across the region. Organizers said the longevity of the program reflects its impact.

“For 15 years, SLI has been equipping students with the tools to lead in their communities and careers,” said program coordinator Tamera Boyland. “This retreat is a cornerstone of that experience, giving students the space to reflect on who they are and who they want to become.”

As the retreat concluded, students left Victory Ranch with new connections, renewed confidence and a deeper understanding of what it means to lead with purpose.