Leadership
Leadership comes from knowledge of self and confidence in one’s own abilities. VMI hones both the mind and the body. Regardless of major, each cadet receives a well-rounded education.
The development of leaders of character at VMI involves a four-year cadet journey through well-integrated and closely coordinated experiences in intellectual, military, physical, and character development. Cadets become leaders of character who are prepared to serve the nation as citizen-soldiers, whether in the military or in another profession of their choice.
Leadership in Organizations, a new core curriculum course required of all cadets commencing with the Class of 2010, focus on the interaction between leaders, followers, and the situational context of the leadership process. Students study the leader's direct influence on individual motivation and group processes through the application of leadership theories, skills, and attributes.
Cadets also learn how to influence subordinates indirectly through organizational systems, procedures, culture, and ethical climate. The design of the course includes self-assessment, self-disclosure, small group exercises in contrived situations, and analysis of case studies.
