7:23 p.m.

“Leadership is nothing if not meant for the collective purpose.”

These are the words of Martin Luther King Jr., as read by Lizette Ortega Dolan this afternoon at her workshop on gender and leadership.

IAAB was lucky enough to have at Camp Ayandeh, Lizette, a teacher at Athenian College Preparatory High School and a Ph.D. student studying education. She began by reading a Robert Frost poem, and then by challenging the campers’ focus of mind.

Can you alternate between pointing your index finger with one hand, and giving a thumbs up with the other? It’s tough!

Lizette next asked the campers to think about what kind of leaders and followers they are. She facilitated short activities such as choosing a partner, and following his or her palm with your face. She also asked the campers to categorize themselves as an animal that would reflect their personality and leadership types. They chose between a turtle, fox, rabbit, and a hawk.

“I realize that I am a rabbit, because rabbits don’t like confrontation,” said first-time camper Michelle Nozzari.

Lizette’s workshop allowed campers to deepen their understanding of their own leadership skills.

And tonight, a few of our young leaders will show camp their musical talent in another jam session! Be sure to check out the blog tomorrow for this loving critic’s thoughts on the show.