A group of 24 students from The University of Southern Mississippi recently returned from a two-week study abroad program in London, where they participated in the Luckyday Leadership in London experience, an initiative aimed at teaching servant leadership through immersive travel and education.
The program, available exclusively to Luckyday Scholars, allows students to explore London while learning about leadership. Created by Dr. Ann Marie Kinnell, Dr. Larry Sparkman, and Laura Malone, the program serves as a capstone for students pursuing the Luckyday Leadership Certificate.
During their time in London, students visited museums, heard from speakers, and experienced cultural landmarks, all while reflecting on their daily encounters through the lens of servant leadership.
Kenning Bridges, a member of the Luckyday graduating class of 2024, participated in the program as a student and returned this year as a teaching assistant. In her new role, she assisted with grading reflections, creating social media content, and supporting instructors.
“I was responsible for helping create social media content, as well as grading specific days of the students’ responses each night,” Bridges said. “I also had the opportunity to speak to students specifically about Prince Albert as a servant leader in the UK on the day we visited South Kensington.”
Each day, students were required to write reflections on their experiences and how they related to leadership principles. Bridges also helped guide students through London and offered advice based on her own experience in the program.
“Having been a student on this trip two years ago, I knew going in how impactful it would be for the students in attendance this year,” she said.
In addition to leadership lessons, the trip allowed students to explore the city independently. Bridges emphasized that the experience provided more than academic growth; it fostered personal development.
“This trip is more than an opportunity to study servant leadership,” Bridges said. “At its core, it’s a chance for students to explore a city in a country that most of them are unfamiliar with. In doing so, they’re empowered to continue traveling and exploring throughout their lives.”
The program also encourages students to develop confidence in navigating new environments, from public transportation to engaging with diverse cultures. Bridges noted the lasting impact of these experiences.
“Getting to see students gain confidence in their abilities to navigate public transportation, communicate with others, and learn what servant leadership looks like outside of their everyday experiences is something I’ll always cherish,” she said. “My hope is that each of the 24 students who attended the Luckyday Leadership in London program this year feel encouraged, inspired, and empowered to continue traveling and experiencing all the world has to offer.”
The Luckyday Leadership in London program provides Southern Miss students with a unique opportunity to learn leadership principles while broadening their global perspectives, offering valuable life lessons that extend beyond the classroom.
