There is an abundance of leadership literature on the shelves of libraries and bookstores, but much of it is ethereal and not relevant to the outdoor experience. As a result, BOLD’s leadership theory was designed to be simple, intuitive, and grounded in genuine outdoor understanding. The three nodes of BOLD’s leadership theory are:
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Awareness (self-awareness, others-awareness, situational awareness)
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Mission (individual purpose, collective goals, prioritization, communication)
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Action (expedition design, role-setting, preparation, execution, adaptation, reflection
Additionally, all of BOLD's major events develop around and rely heavily on what we like to call a "SOLID foundation"
Safety planning
Outdoor skills
Leadership
Interdependence
Drive
BOLD's Leadership Theory
BOLD's 3-Phase Experiential Leadership Model
BOLD is an outdoor leadership club (as opposed to an outdoor club). This may seem like a nuanced distinction, but it is an important one that influences every detail of the organization’s activities and their execution. BOLD’s version of outdoor leadership is communicated through the Three-Phase Experiential Leadership Model, a progressive set of experiences that lead the BOLD participant to a place of self-transformation, interdependence, and a deep appreciation for the power and beauty of nature, as described in BOLD’s mission.
1. FOUNDATION
Foundation involves acquiring and developing necessary outdoor and safety planning skills. Participants also begin identifying their physical and mental boundaries. They then test these skills and boundaries on Cornerstone.
Who is it for?
These events are open to anyone!
What does it cost?
These events are free
2. CORNERSTONE
Cornerstone expeditions are typically short overnight camping trips to the mountains of North Carolina. Skills from Foundation are put to the test and there is an emphasis on team building, awareness, and what it means to be a leader. After several months of training, preparation, and planning, participants set out on the Keystone event.
Who is it for?
These events are open to all graduate and professional studenst, but space is limited and spots are filled on a first come first serve basis.
What does it cost?
These events involve traveling to other areas of North Carolina and typically cost about $50 per person.
3. KEYSTONE
Keystone expeditions are typically high-altitude attempts on ~16,000 - 19,000 ft peaks in Central and South America. These are demanding opportunities that require participants to exercise their skills and push their phsyical and mental boundaries.
Who is it for?
These events are open to all graduate and professional students. Fellows review all applications to select expedition teams of 10-12. Find out more about the application review process and what we're looking for here.
What does it cost?
The Keystone Expedition is a high impact outdoor leadership experience that takes place abroad. In the past, trip expenses (travel, food, guides, accomodations, and some gear) have budgets in the ballpark of $2,400. Keep in mind that this amount may be higher if you have to purchase individual outdoor gear such as a backpack, cold weather apparel, hiking boots, etc.