Student Activities and Leadership
The James K. Sours Student Leadership Center
The James K. Sours Student Leadership Center is both a university-wide program and a physical location.
Southern Oregon University celebrates the opening of the James K. Sours Student Leadership Center. The Center provides Southern Oregon University with the opportunity to develop an inclusive and comprehensive program for student development in leadership for the 21st century. Located on the third floor of the Stevenson Union, the James K. Sours Student Leadership Center provides a dynamic space for leadership programs, student activities and clubs, and student government (ASSOU). Program services and common areas are for use by student organizations at the university and unit levels, and for endeavors targeted at the entire student body.
The James K. Sours Student Leadership Center is named for Dr. James K. Sours, President of Southern Oregon University from 1969 through 1979. Dr. Sours' entire career was dedicated to promoting the well-being and growth of all people. During his tenure as President, Dr. Sours held to his philosophy that the primary reason for the University is to teach, coach and mentor students. He never faltered in his belief that because students would become the leaders of the next generation, it was his responsibility to see that the educational environment they had chosen was one in which their skills could be honed and polished. As a firm supporter of democratic philosophies and open communication, he recognized this required not only student participation, but also that of faculty and administration members, as well as the participation of community members. The James K. Sours Student Leadership Center offers a place where these beliefs can be shared and nurtured with all who walk through its doors, and where students will find the resources to help them become ethical leaders who can impact their surrounding communities to effect positive social change.
The James K. Sours Student Leadership Center houses many student groups, including:
» Student Activities Program Board
» Student Activities and Leadership development staff
» Associated Students of Southern Oregon University (student government)
