Blueprint to Success Welcomes All to Spring 2025

Students at Blueprint to Success on Feb. 5

By Iffath Liaquat

On Feb. 5, numerous students attended the Blueprint to Success (BTS) reception to learn how to become more active on campus. Held in the Music Building and hosted by Lehman’s Office of Students Affairs in collaboration with the Urban Male Leadership Program (UMLP), the Wellness Center, and the Counseling Center, the event promoted programs designed to help students develop fundamental skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and even CPR.

Christian Davila, a Lehman student and member of UMLP, helped set up the event and shared his experience of special opportunities through that program. “It’s an amazing experience to get involved and help others out,” he said. As a member of the Leadership for All and Introduction to Leadership programs, he added that “it’s important to take advantage of all the resources available on campus.”

“We want to encourage our students to become more active members...[and] take advantage of the many opportunities we have.” -- Dr. Conrad Walker, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs at Lehman College

Dr. Conrad Walker, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, introduced BTS initiatives, explaining how the program helps students from varying levels become more involved in their community. “It’s easy to register for different events on campus using Lightning Connects,” he said. “We want to encourage our students to become more active members...[and] take advantage of the many opportunities we have.”

Johnny Lozado, the associate director of the UMLP and CREAR Futuros, also encouraged students to take initiative and join the UMLP if they wish to gain leadership skills. “Come stop by room 302, where we can hook you up with information on joining us. We have resources such as mentorships and annual retreats!”

There are certain events on campus that help students fulfill the criteria needed to earn their own BTS badges. On the Lehman Lightning Connections site, after logging in, students can click on their profile to find the “Paths” button to track their progress toward earning their own badge. Many of the campus meetings required to earn a badge are categorized as developing either engagement or leadership skills that are sought after by employers. At the end of the semester, once they earn all the credit needed, they can add the badge to their LinkedIn profile or resume. Sessions that counted towards a BTS badge last semester were a CPR/ First Aid Event, a training by the tutoring center, and sessions held by the Career Exploration and Development Center.

The reception ended with UMLP members serving attendees delicious foods, creating a lively atmosphere, and organizers passing out gifts. Counseling Center staff also handed out daily planners and invited students to learn more about their services and not be afraid to seek their help while going through hardships.