Guest blog by Dayna Siplia

On the first weekend of April, the students of Mark Maier’s LEAD 414 class made their way to the Yokoji Zen Mountain Center for a class retreat. The weekend included sitting and walking meditations, leadership exercises and opportunities for self-reflection.

For many students in the class, this easily became one of their most memorable Chapman experiences. Bailey Blair, a junior IES major said, “The retreat was one of the best experiences I have had at Chapman. I had heard about it when I applied for the Leadership program, so I was anticipating when I would get the opportunity to go. It exceeded all my expectations. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to go with some of my best friends, and now, some new, special friends. I am thankful for my classmates and Mark for making the retreat what it was. It would not have been the same without them”.

Another student in the class this semester, Ian Cabriera, a junior Business major said, “This phenomenal retreat put together by Mark was one of my top experiences at Chapman! Through our bonding activities, I got to know my classmates better, leaving me with quality friends”.

The Leadership Studies minor provides so many great and unique opportunities for growth, especially with this retreat. A big thank you to Mark Maier for bringing the minor into existence and giving it all his love. The Leadership Studies program is so lucky to have someone as genuine, dedicated, and caring as Mark Maier.