Not the Norm

Welcome back PLC blog readers! Another week has flown by here at Rogers State University, and I have much to report on what the President's Leadership Class has been up to.

Every Wednesday, all forty three of us attend our PLC class which is taught by none other than Stratton Taylor, but last week wasn't the normal situation. Constitution day, held by RSU, fell on the same time as our class. The lucky freshman PLC members and a few upperclassmen, were fortunate enough to attend this event, while the other members got the day off from class.

Judge Russell

Constitution day is an event in which Rogers State University presents an award to an Oklahoman who has demonstrated a strong commitment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution through his or her life's work. The Honorable David Russell, Senior U.S. District Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma, was this years recipient. Our freshman class, among many other guests, enjoyed a speech from judge Russell as well as a delicious meal from the university. Constitution day was a great event that expanded our knowledge and gave us the opportunity to respect our leaders in government.




If you're wondering what the PLC class actually does during its normal Wednesday classes, let me fill you in. At the beginning of class, we go over important information that will affect us in the weeks ahead. The most exciting part of any class is the lectures. While Stratton Taylor does talk to us, he almost always brings in an influential leader from our state or nation to speak with us about what it means to be an effective and successful leader. Two weeks ago, our class had the privilege of listening to Ken Levit. Mr. Levitt was the advisor to the director of the CIA in 1999, 2000, and 2001. He shared with us great information about how the CIA works and how it protects our country. Although he is not currently working for the CIA, we asked him plenty of questions regarding the issue of Syria and other middle eastern countries. It is truly amazing to hear from a man who has experienced so much, and is willing to share his advice with us.

The class usually concludes with Stratton Taylor giving us a weekly essay to write that is typically an imaginary scenario based on real events. Last weeks assignment was this: You are the superintendent of the imaginary town of Riceville which is a community of five thousand people who are all Christian. As the leader of the public school system, you have to decide whether or not to allow daily bible readings over the intercom in every class. In this scenario, the constitution or any other legal concern does not apply. You have to base your decision on what you think is best for the community. Feel free to comment on this blog with your opinion of this scenario! What would you do?

Have a great week Rogers State University, and remember:  Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward!