Change your life. Change the world.
The Iowa Student Leadership Team (ISLT) is a community of leaders pursuing a life of justice, mission, and love. Training sessions led by experienced InterVarsity staff include five 24-hour weekends hosted across the state of Iowa throughout the 2020-21 school year. Make life-long friends as you learn how to lead Scripture studies, share the gospel in your context, pursue radical justice, and multiply your campus chapter.
2020-2021 SCHEDULE
Leaders’ Seminar: Oct. 10, Virtual Fall Retreat
When God calls us to navigate the unknown, how will we respond? Join students across Iowa and Nebraska for a day of questioning, learning, worship, and community. REGISTER
Leading with Vision: October 23-24, Virtual Gathering
Today now more than ever, the campus needs men and women who lead others with God's vision in their lives. In this training, you will have space to hear from God personally, gain tools to help create a clear and compelling vision, and leave with practical steps and coaching on how to make it a reality on your campus this semester.
Leading Transforming Bible Studies: November 14-15, Virtual Gathering
Through the Bible we come to know Jesus and the bigger story of God’s work in the world. Since the official start of InterVarsity in 1941, the Bible has been at the core of who we are. Every year, InterVarsity trains thousands of college students from every background to lead engaging and transformational Bible studies. Our goal is to help you and your community start or continue on your journey into Scripture by sharing our best practices, tools, and insights, that we might all grow together in the fullness of God.
Leading with Radical Justice: February 19-21, Des Moines/Virtual Gathering
The Lord cares for you and people of every tribe, tongue, and nation. InterVarsity’s commitment to justice and crossing cultures flows from the study of scriptures and Jesus himself. He’s called every one of us to follow him into every corner of our campus, our city, and our World. When we step into that calling, we experience him in ways we haven’t before. In this hands-on training, students are invited to experience God in fresh ways as they learn about themselves and dive deeper into themes of identity, purpose, and faith through the lens of the marginalized and oppressed.
Leading Your Group to Grow: April 16-17, Virtual Gathering
InterVarsity is all about helping chapters become witnessing communities that grow and multiply. In this training, students will learn how to vision and shape a plan for the following school year to invite, gather, and build your small or large group ministry. Whether your group has been around for decades or is brand new, you will find effective strategies and resources to help your group grow and follow Jesus into mission on campus.
COHORT FAQ
What is the ISLT Cohort? ISLT stands for Iowa Student Leadership Team. It is comprised of student leaders who are engaged in campus ministry across the state of Iowa.
Do I have to be in InterVarsity to be in the ISLT? The majority of our students are members of InterVarsity. However, we are happy to extend invitations to other campus ministry partners if it feels like a good fit. Our only stipulation is that they agree with our statement of faith.
How many students are part of the ISLT? Each year we offer 2-3 spots for each campus. While the overall number of students will vary from year to year, currently we have students invited from over 10 colleges and universities throughout our state.
Is there an age requirement? The majority of our students are sophomores and juniors. However, we are open to exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
What is the required commitment to be a part of the ISLT? As part of a select group of student leaders, we are asking that you attend all five of the cohort training sessions listed. However, we realize that unexpected conflicts can occur. We will allow one excused absence if needed to still remain in the program. In order for it to be excused, you must request it from your staff as soon as you realize you need to be gone. Graduation and the Global Project are joyfully offered optional experiences.
Will there be homework? Each cohort will end with a practical application to take back to your campus with the hope that you will implement what you have learned for your specific ministry context. Your campus staff will be available for any coaching and support if needed. We will encourage each team to share these stories and ideas together so we can celebrate what God is doing throughout our group and state.
What are the arrival and departure times for each gathering? All ISLT gatherings, with the exception of Fall Conference, will begin at 7 pm on Friday and finish at 5 pm on Saturday. Meals and lodging during this time will be provided. Meals will include breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
What is the cost for the ISLT? Costs for the ISLT are made possible by the generosity of our ministry partners and donors across the state. Aside from any additional meals, there is no out-of-pocket costs for you as a student. If you enjoy the experience and see the benefit of it in your life and your campus, we would love for you to send a Thank You to one of our many ministry partners who made this possible. Thank You notes will be provided.
How do I register for the ISLT Cohort? Follow the link below to apply for the ISLT. In addition, please sign up for Fall Conference here. Once you register, you will be added to the ISLT communication list and receive separate emails and information for each gathering throughout the year.