The Tribune

AS part of the 2014 January term at Drake University, Tom Westbrook, professor of education, and Melissa Sturm-Smith, associate provost for academic excellence and student success, will lead a group of 20 Drake students to the Bahamas for much more than sun, sand, and sailing.

For the second year in a row, the Leadership at Sea course will travel to the Bahamas to learn about leadership, seamanship, Nassau, and provide support to the Bahamas Marathon and the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure.

The course is structured in three parts. First, the students spend a week on Drake’s campus, learning about Nassau, seamanship, and various leadership models.

Then, the group travels to Nassau to spend time at the American Embassy, touring the area, meeting with members of the Bahamian government, and helping Pam Richardson, director of Race Weekend, prepare for the marathon and the Susan G Komen race. This year the students will also meet and spend time with student leaders at the College of the Bahamas and complete a service project.

During the final part of the course, the students will board the Liberty Clipper, a gaff-rigged, square-masted sailboat where they will have the opportunity to slowly take command of the ship and put their leadership skills into action.

Last year’s trip was a huge success and the Race Weekend went off without a hitch. More than 1,000 people participated in the 2013 races. Some Drake students ran in the races, while others staffed water stations and helped Pam’s team with race logistics. This year, Westbrook says more than half of the Drake students plan to run in one of the marathon races.

“I think the Susan G Komen race and the marathon provide a wonderful opportunity for our students to get involved with the Nassau community and participate in an excellent fundraiser that allows them to get to know the citizens and the community better,” says Westbrook. “We are delighted to return and team up with Pam for the second year in a row.”

The course are slated to begin January 6, 2014. The races are set for Saturday, January 18 and Sunday, January 19.