ExCEL

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is ExCEL?

ExCEL stands for Experience in Cultivating Excellence in Leadership. ExCEL is a leadership-training program for sophomores interested in improving, understanding, or developing their leadership abilities. The program is similar in some ways to Leadership Oxford (LO).

What is the time commitment? The time commitment includes Sunday afternoon and Wednesday evening of the week preceeding the last weekend of September. On that last weekend of September the entire group leaves campus for a weekend retreat in North Georgia. We usually leave Friday afternoon around 3pm and return Sunday evening by 9pm.

Who can participate?

ExCEL is open to all sophomores, though priority is given to those sophomores who have not been through Leadership Oxford or other leadership training at Oxford.

How many students can participate?

This year there is room for 25 students.

Where does it take place?

The weekend retreat takes place in North Georgia at a beautiful location near Toccoa, GA. The rest of the activities will take place on or around campus.

I've never heard of ExCEL, how long has it been going on at Oxford?

This will be the seventh year of ExCEL.

Who organizes and runs the programs?

ExCEL is coordinated by Director, Student Activities and Rev. Judy Shema, campus chaplain. They are assisted by Executive Adventure, a private consulting firm which also helps us with Leadership Oxford.

How much does it cost?

Your contribution to the cost of the week's activities as well as the 3 day mountain retreat is $51. This covers your transportation, all food, snack as well as the place you will be staying for the weekend.

What about my studies and commitments?

ExCEL does involve a lot of time, for one week, but most students who have participated in the past found that the experience was well worth the investment of time and energy. It may involve some careful time management and planning prior to the program and on the off-days and nights during the program. There will be some free time during the retreat, and in the past, some students have studied in the van on the way to and from the retreat.

What if I don't know anybody else that is signed up?

You will before the program is over. ExCEL is a great way to get to know other Oxford students. You may also get to know some ExCEL graduates that are now at Emory.

Will there be food?

Yes!

How can I get my NFAQ's (not frequently asked questions) answered?

Feel free to contact Rev. Shema or Director, Student Activities. You will get to know the student leadership team and you may contact them as well.

How do I sign up?

1. Fill out an application available at this link , or get a hard copy from Rev. Shema or Jim Hultine. if you can't find us we can email it to you. Check the file pocket on the wall outside Rev. Shema's office on the second floor landing of the student center, too.
2. Turn it in at the receptionist desk at the Counseling Center or at the Student Center with a $51 deposit.
3. Please fill out the release form at this link.
4. Get ready to have a great experience.

What do I need to bring?

1. Scruffy clothes (shorts, jeans, tshirts, socks, long sleeves for cold nights)
2. Closed toed shoes a must. Ex. tennis shoes
3. Flipflops for shower
4. Jacket (mountain evenings are cold)
5. Rain parka or jacket
6. Sleeping bag or blanket, sheets and pillow
7. Towel
8. Soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothbrush, insect repellent, sun screen, etc.
9. Flashlight
10. Wire coat hanger for marshmallow roasting