The Serenbetz Institute for Women’s Leadership, Social Responsibility, and Global Awareness was established in the fall of 2010 to support Cottey College’s mission to promote the education of women as “learners, leaders, and citizens.” In 2014, the Institute was named in recognition of a major gift to the College by Thelma Serenbetz. The Institute works to advance an understanding of leadership characterized by trust, empathy, and integrity.
Recognizing leadership as a skill that can be learned and practiced, the Institute provides opportunities within and beyond the classroom, allowing individuals to develop their leadership skills through hands-on practice. The Institute serves as a catalyst for emerging leaders by empowering them to confidently impact their communities and careers.
Specific initiatives sponsored and promoted by the Institute include the following:
- Undergraduate Research Grants for students and faculty to pursue research on leadership and its development within their academic disciplines;
- Leadership Immersions for students to explore women’s leadership, social responsibility, and global awareness in placed-based travel opportunities;
- Career Catalyst Internship Grants to support student internship-related expenses;
- Serenbetz Summer Scholars Program for selected students to participate in a competitive summer internship at a non-profit agency partner in Chicago, Illinois; and
- Seminars, speakers, and workshops emphasizing women's leadership, social responsibility, and global awareness.