The leadership perspectives of former student government presidents and the post-college impact of the presidency

Colleges and universities are recognized for developing the future leaders of society. In fact, student government has been described as a "laboratory" for learning about leadership (Falvey, 1952). Yet, none of the studies to date has explored the leadership perspectives of former student government presidents or the impact of their student government experience after college.;This study explored the leadership perspectives of former student government presidents using the Bolman and Deal (1991, 2003) leadership model. It also examined the perceptions of these leaders of the post-college impact of their student government service. The population consisted of former student government presidents from a large urban institution over a 30 year time span.;Data were collected via an electronic survey and telephone interviews with those interested. The survey consisted of the Bolman and Deal Leadership Orientations Instrument (Self-Administered) (1991) and a Demographic/Supplemental form. Interview questions provided data on their definition of leadership and on the impact of the presidency on their leadership perspectives, professional and personal lives. Survey and interview data collection occurred simultaneously. The response rates were 83% (19) and 61% (14) for the survey and interviews, respectively.;Survey data indicated that 42% (8) the former student government presidents viewed leadership from three or more of the four leadership frames. The human resource frame was the dominant frame followed by the political, symbolic and structural frames. There was no significant relationship between the number of years after college and multi-frame leadership. Over half (53%) indicated they were able to apply the skills they acquired as president after college. The human resource frame was the dominant leadership orientation in the former student government presidents' leadership orientations and in their definitions of leadership. Respondents reported the presidency increased their knowledge about leadership and the skills required to succeed in these roles, career direction, provided development of organizational and interpersonal skills and, a bond with former presidents and the institution. Knowledge gained from this one-of-a-kind study can be used to advance communication and support successful collaboration between these distinguished alumni and their alma maters. This study has implications for student affairs, advancement, alumni relations and career services professionals.