Students in West Virginia Universitys new Leadership Studies minor are pairing up this semester with the people who lead for a living.

A host of Morgantown business executives and nonprofit directors are mentoring students as part of course requirements for LDR 401 : the Leader in Action Capstone class.

Students will spend at least 45 hours this semester working on assigned projects and research, as they strive to find their own legs as leaders. The mentorship must include a final, defining project, be it a publication or specific event, like a major fundraiser.

The capstone class marks the first collaboration between the leadership minor in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences and WVU s Center for Civic Engagement.

Class mentors:

• Beth Phillips , executive director, Scotts Run Settlement House

• John Weete , WVU vice president of Research and Economic Development

• Alex Shook , attorney and West Virginia state delegate

• Susan Fox , director, Stepping Stones

• Jena Prokopchuck , executive director, United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties

• Sabrina Cave , WVU Parents Club

• Narvel Weese , WVU vice president for Finance and Administration

• Marlon LeBlanc , WVU mens soccer coach

• Brad Cox , WVU Athletics Compliance Officer

• Brad Allamong , president, Morgantown, Chamber of Commerce

• Jim Manilla , Morgantown City councilman and small business owner

• Chris Martin , WVU vice president of University Advancement and Marketing

WVU began offering the leadership minor in the Fall 2006 semester. Minors must take 18 hours in specific disciplines, including three core classes exploring principles of leadership, problems in leadership and leadership in action.

For more information, contact Dr. Larry Cote, director of Leadership Studies, at larry.cote@mail.wvu.edu or 304-293-5691.