Franciscan leadership course takes Siena students beyond the classroom

The concept of servant leadership is a powerful pillar of Siena University’s mission. That’s why the Franciscan-sponsored university offers a special learning opportunity that goes way beyond the classroom. Students learn a vision of leadership articulated by Saints Francis and Clare of Assisi, and Bernardine of Siena, then they travel abroad to walk in the footsteps of the men and women who inspired the lesson plans.   

The course, Franciscan Leadership, empowers Siena students of any major with the knowledge and values of the Franciscan tradition to lead, serve and succeed in their careers, communities and lives, according to Br. Mark Reamer, OFM, D.Min., vice president for mission.  

“We explore leadership through the lens of the teachings of Francis and Clare,” Br. Mark explained. “They looked to the core of who the other person was to help them discover their own value. We discussed résumé virtues versus eulogy virtues, which moves us to ask ourselves if we have the capacity to love and be loved.”  

In the first part of the course, students learn to think critically and creatively to engage with the questions and issues of today’s complex world. The second part transforms the students into pilgrims, where they tour the birthplace of the Franciscan movement, with stops in Rome, Florence, Siena and Assisi.  

Twenty-four students participated last fall and their pilgrimage from Dec. 27, 2025, to Jan. 6, 2026, gave them new perspectives on their purpose and who God is calling them to be.  

“The most important thing I learned was to live in the present moment and embrace God’s creation,” said Kyle Carney ‘27. “The world is constantly moving at a rapid pace, concerning itself with what will occur rather than enjoying the moments as they happen. The pilgrimage provided a time where reflection, stillness, and beauty all intertwined in a religious experience that was both personal and communal. Overall, the trip was impactful on the development of my faith, creation of new friendships, and growth as a servant leader."   

While faith and servant leadership were the cornerstones of the pilgrimage, the simple pleasures of breaking bread together and visiting inspirational sites rounded out the students’ experience.  

“The pilgrimage provided many opportunities for faith to be deepened through prayer services, Masses, and tours of cathedrals,” said Owen Zaik ’27. “All the cities were so unique, and no matter where you looked, the architecture, culture, and food amazed you.” 

‘Sense of community’ 

Ally Guzy ’27 shared that her trip was meaningful and helped her feel more connected to others.   

“Sharing most meals with my peers, visiting special places, and taking time to reflect made me appreciate simplicity, kindness, and being present in the moment. The sense of community we built on this trip is something I’ll always be grateful for and will carry with me moving forward,” said Guzy.  

This was the first-time assistant teaching professor Melody Nadeau, Ph.D. took part in the Franciscan Leadership pilgrimage, and she appreciated Donald Spoto’s book Reluctant Saint, which the entire class read.  

“It set us up for the trip in ways I would never have imagined, as the spaces Francis and his brothers lived, worked, and retreated in were thoroughly described,” she said. “We all had the advantage of seeing these important sites come to life as we traveled.”  

Nadeau said she also loved San Damiano, where Clare wrote her Rule of Life, the first document written by a woman to be given papal support.   

“Nothing we can read or imagine could replace actually walking in the steps of Francis and Clare,” she said. “Every person who wishes to understand Siena’s Franciscan tradition more deeply – students, faculty, staff, administrators – needs to make this pilgrimage a priority.”  

'Value the smaller things’ 

At the end of the course, students were asked to write an essay reflecting on the concepts of truth, beauty and goodness, and how they can inform their views of leadership. They also created a collage to illustrate who they are and who they are becoming.  

“I really enjoyed getting to learn more about myself and taking those insights back to the U.S. with me,” said Emma Mackay ‘27. “I shared a story in my essay about getting a rosary for my neighbor and having it be blessed by the pope. After I gave her the rosary, she kept saying she was so happy I brought her back something. It helped me realize I should value the smaller things in life and embrace those around me more.”  

This article was originally published by Siena University and is used here with permission.