ATLF Ambassador Program
The ATLF recognizes that compassionate leaders are a key to ending hazing. The Ambassador Program offers an online safe space for young adults to learn the importance of compassionate leadership. Members engage in a series of conversations about leadership, belonging, trust, respect, collaboration and compassionate communication. They develop tools to practice leading in a new way and share what they have learned in their own communities.
STUDENTS LEAD THE JOURNEY TO CREATE CHANGE
The Antonio Tsialas Leadership Foundation (ATLF) was established in 2020 to raise hazing awareness following Antonio’s tragic and untimely passing. Yet, it quickly became evident that awareness of hazing wasn’t enough. It would take a new kind of leader to change the toxic traditions on college campuses. Reflecting Antonio’s spirit, we developed the Ambassador Program to teach compassionate leadership to young people.
LEARNING TO LEAD WITH COMPASSION
Ambassadors meet for one hour, twice monthly both online and in person throughout the academic year. The program is composed of modules that serve as the foundation for change. The CLEARING Model of leadership trains students to focus on collaboration, active listening, empathy in action, accountability, responsibility, inclusion and gratitude for powerful, compassionate leadership. There is also a deliberate space left open to allow for change and growth. Within that space, transformation occurs, vision expands, goals become clear, and possibility feels tangible. Ambassadors engage in a series of open and generative conversations about topics essential to all leaders.These students not only learn leadership theory, they put it into action. Ambassadors lead programs at their schools, launch fundraising efforts, participate in programs with national hazing prevention partners, and spread the word in their communities.
JOIN THE JOURNEY
Our signature program is currently offered to local high school students and can be adapted to meet the needs of schools, businesses and organizations. The junior ambassador program is open to sophomores and juniors in high school. After completing that program, students are eligible to participate in our senior ambassador program. Some also stay on as mentors to younger ambassadors. We recognize the strength and beauty of diversity and encourage students of all races, genders, sexual orientations, religions, physical abilities, and backgrounds to join our program.
Students are welcome to inquire about the Ambassador program each year in the spring and summer. We launch new cohorts in September and the program continues through the academic year.
Since the program’s launch in 2021, Ambassadors have been dedicated to raising hazing awareness and changing campus culture. Members who successfully complete the program will receive an ATLF Leadership Certificate, earn community service hours and become eligible for scholarships.
AMBASSADORS BUILD SKILLS THAT LAST A LIFETIME
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Develop skills foundational to lifelong leadership
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Learn to build cohesive groups and teams based on trust, safety, inclusion and respect for one another
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Practice essential leadership skills including collaboration, communication, accountability and listening
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Embrace self-compassion as a foundation for leading others
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Become empowered to make safe and mindful choices and define personal boundaries
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Lead life with compassion and inclusion
ATLF AMBASSADORS SHARE ABOUT THE PROGRAM
I highly recommend this program to anyone…but be ready because your life will be changed forever!
Michael Bittner Mcpherson
I gained the tools to become a compassionate ambassador and teach others how to protect themselves against the dangers of hazing.
Ella Barnett
This program completely changed the conversation about leadership.
Sofia Romanov Imber
I learned about the ATLF CLEARING model that will act as a template for the environment I strive to create.
Lucas Lippey
The program has transformed me into a leader that values purposeful compassion and helps prevent others from experiencing exclusion and hazing.
Katarina Peña
I'm grateful for the program because it has taught me how to be compassionate with myself and with others.
Christopher Tsialas
I learned how to lead with kindness and ensure that every individual feels valued and respected.
Jack Penna
I learned how to become a better friend and build healthier relationships with the people I meet.
Lucas Russ
I learned the importance of collaboration, kindness, and inclusivity. The ATLF has affected my life, thought process, and relationships with others, and I am grateful to be able to call myself an ATLF ambassador.
Zarah Rizvi
The program sparks a message of hope and compassion for the next generations of students and leaders.
Samantha Diaz
Six years ago, the program connected me to a network of individuals driven to learn more about compassionate leadership and spread hazing awareness. Today in college, I facilitate leadership meetings and guide new ambassadors with that knowledge.
Athena Tsialas
I now know the dangers of hazing and how to encourage other students to practice compassionate leadership.
Abby Penna
I have gained valuable insight about hazing prevention and how to be an effective and supportive leader also in difficult situations. My involvement continues to help improve my communication and teamwork skills.
Garrett Fox
The program is focused on making real changes to prevent hazing and educate leaders.
Jackson Pegg
