Lessons Learned: Behind the Scenes

"As the success of Apple shows, simple is good. People like simple. But the Apple example also shows that you have to work awfully hard to make something complex seem simple. You need to work your way through simplistic and complex before you get to simple.How can you do this? The secret to making things look simple is to build a deep understanding of the system." - Tim Kastelle

I remember participating in RAPP XXV and seeing Rebecca or Tara facilitate our meetings. As I watched them, I thought to myself "I can do that." Years later, I am. However, it took all the time between then and now to be decent at it. In reality there are still moments when I feel completely overwhelmed by all that I still have yet to learn. 

People, myself included, have a tendency to see the finished product and forget all of the effort that went into creating it. Behind each of our RAPP meetings, hours of planning take place among the formal leadership team (Peer Leaders and Facilitators). Speaking of that formal leadership team; they weren't born into their roles. Each position filled required trained; both beforehand and on-the-job. Oh and those topics we discuss in RAPP may seem random at times, but in reality they are part of a 9 month curriculum that is designed and updated with the group's needs in mind. 

So the next time you see a finished product and think "I can do that," remember the behind the scenes steps you likely aren't seeing. Then ask yourself "why haven't I?" 

Lessons Learned is a RAPP Blog initiative intended for folks who hold formal leadership positions in RAPP programs to share what they're learning through their process

Lesson Learned: Peer Leadership

At this point in the year, I am reminded of how much I rely on the other leaders around me. Though everyone in RAPP is a leader, I am thinking specifically of our peer leaders. RAPP's peer leaders play pivotal roles both as mentors and friends.
This year Jalisa, Nate, and Siva have been amazing! They show up to everything, they contribute real and valuable insights to conversations, and they make me feel comfortable in the work I do with RAPP.

Nate, Siva, & Jalisa on their way to retreat!

There are many things I find inspiring about our peer leaders, but these are just some of the examples. They set their own learning goals, but I have found that they are indispensable at helping me achieve my own. 

Lessons Learned is a RAPP Blog initiative intended for folks who hold formal leadership positions in RAPP programs to share what they're learning through their process

Meet the RAPP XXIX Facilitation Team!

RAPP XXIX comes together for the first time this week to begin its academic year long journey together.  Meet the team that will be working with the group and behind the scenes to shape the experience.  The photos and bios come from training time together pre-RAPP.

Brice Mickey
Hi! My name is Brice and I am an IT major going into my senior year.  I have been involved with RAPP for some time now (since XXV) and I love the program for what it has taught me.  Last year I was a proud facilitator of RAPP XXVIII and I look forward to reprising that role again with XXIX.

Jalisa Holifield

Jalisa is a 4th year Dietetic student from Cincinnati, Ohio.  This will be her third experience with RAPP, having become an alum of RAPP XXVII and ARJ 1, in 2011-12 school year.

When she is not studying for her advanced nutrition courses she enjoys napping, snacking on healthy food, and dancing.

Nathaniel Bell
I was born in Montgomery, Alabama in a year that predates the fall of the Berlin Wall.  My father, who was in the Air Force at the time, was stationed at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, hence that being my birthplace.  We moved when I was three, so I have no memory of Alabama.
From age three to twelve, I lived in Maryland, though we moved often.  At twelve, we moved to Louisville, Kentucky, which I now consider my hometown.  Almost four years ago, I moved to Dayton, Ohio and began college at Sinclair Community College.  Almost two years ago, I transferred to UC, knowing not a soul in Cincinnati.  Now I'm getting ready to go to grad school somewhere else.  I guess what I'm saying is that I'm a nomad.
There's more, but Rebecca is saying "finish up your last sentence now."  So, feel free to ask me whatever.  I'm fairly reticent, though I'm open when asked about most anything.  Also, I'm a pretentious English major who uses words like, "reticent."

Rebecca Lehman
Personality: Likes to laugh, be ambiguous in answering questions, and awkwardly dance at surprising times
Group activities: Diversity Funding Grant review committee (SALD), Turner Scholars Selection Committee, Faculty/Staff Campaign of Proudly Cincinnati, UC Memorial Committee, advisor to Planet Lan IT and Yoga for the Soul, Nat'l Association for Multicultural Education, ACPA
Grew Up: Hamilton! OH
Hobbies: Swimming, playing ukulele, reading, watching TV
Pet Peeve: When people yawn without covering their mouth
Politics: Fighting oppression through individual awareness and collective action

Siva Nagi Reddy Inturi
I am a laid back person.  I take things easily.  I speak my mind and am very open. I assume myself as a good listener.  I have done many activities, like president of the Graduate Student Association (Chemical) for two years and sports groups.
I am from the southern part of India.  I like sports, hanging with friends, walking, and many more.  I am little political and would love to talk about my opinions only if others are interested.

Announcing the Leadership Team for RAPP 2013-14!

The selection process for the limited leadership roles available in RAPP is a challenging one - each year, we have more more-than-qualified applicants than spots available.

Many thanks to the great campus leaders who helped make this imperfect process a manageable and even enjoyable one:  AJ E (RAPP XXVI), Ana M (RAPP XXVI), Becca H (RED), Farooq A (RAPP XXVII), Maggy F (RED), Shyamal R (XXVI), & Susie M (SALD)!

Many thanks also to the all of the great Bearcats who applied for the positions.  It was truly a talented group, making the selection process a difficult one.  All of the applicants are leaders in RAPP and around campus who work to make our campus a more just and caring community.

Please join me in welcoming those who were placed into formal positions:

Accelerating Racial Justice 2013
Peer Leaders:
Corinne Pattersion - Activists Coming Together (ACT), Women in Leadership & Learning (WILL)
Gregory Gamble - ARJ 2012, Social Justice League 2012-13
Jazmyn Battie - ARJ 2012
Maya Whyte - RAPP XXVIII

Process Observers:
Jojo Azevedo - RAPP XXIV, RAPP XXVI Peer Leader, ARJ 2013 & RAPP XXVII Student Facilitator, Social Justice League 2010-2013
Kevin Weber - RAPP XXVI, Social Justice League 2011-13

Student Facilitators:
Jamieson Williams - RAPP XXVII, ARJ 2013 Student Worker
Megan Kreaps - RAPP XXVII, Social Justice League 2012-13

RAPP XXIX
Peer Leaders:
Jalisa Holifield - RAPP XXVII, ARJ 2012 Peer Leader, Social Justice League 2012-13, ACT, WILL
Nathaniel Bell - RAPP XXVIII
Siva Nagi Reddy Inturi - RAPP XXVI

Student Facilitator/Worker:
Brice Mickey

RAPPORT
Student Workers:
Jamieson Williams - RAPP XXVII, ARJ 2013 Student Worker/Facilitator
Matthew Woodruff - RAPP XXVI, RAPP XXVII Peer Leader, Social Justice League 2011-13

ARJ 2014
Student Worker:
Meg Groat - RAPP XXVIII

Apply to Be a RAPP Leader! Applications Due This Friday

There are several ways to be involved in RAPP as a student leader!  Participation in RAPP's intensive programs - either the 9-month RAPP or 5-day Accelerating Racial Justice - is strongly encouraged as a first step.  Participation in similar programs is recognized as well, though.

Summer 2013 Opportunities:

• Accelerating Racial Justice Peer Leader:  Serve as a mentor to participants in the 5-day summer program, participating in all ARJ sessions as well as pre-service training and staff meetings during the August 12-16 intensive. (anticipated 3 positions)
• Accelerating Racial Justice Facilitator:  Serve as volunteer student facilitator in the 5-day summer program, participating in pre-service planning and training as well as facilitating during all sessions and participating in staff meetings during the August 12-16 intensive.  (anticipated 1 position)  
• Accelerating Racial Justice Process Observer:   Serve as a silent observer during the 5-day summer program recording information for immediate and long-term use, participating in pre-service planning and training as well as taking detailed observations for evaluation and training purposes during all sessions and participating in staff meetings during the August 12-16 intensive. (anticipated 1-2 positions)

2013-14 Academic Year Opportunities:

• RAPP XXIX Peer Leader:  Serve as a mentor to participants in the 9-month program, attending a minimum of ten of the meetings and two of the retreats as well as participating in pre-service and semesterly trainings.  RAPP XXIX schedule is available here. (3 positions)
• RAPP XXIX Student Worker: Serve as a student facilitator for RAPP XXIX, working an average of 15 hours/week doing planning, administration, and facilitation work for pay.  Read the position description here. (1 position)
• RAPPORT Student Worker:  Serve as an student facilitator for RAPPORT 2013-14, working an average of 15 hours/week doing planning, administration, and facilitation work for pay.  Read the position description here. (1 position)
• Accelerating Racial Justice 2014 Student Worker: Serve as a student coordinator and facilitator for Accelerating Racial Justice 2014, working an average of 10 hours/week doing planning, recruitment, administrative, and facilitation work January-September 2014.  Read the position description here. (1 position)

Apply Now!
To apply for one or more of the above positions, please download and complete the application HERE.

Peer Leader candidates are evaluated primarily through their written application, though candidates who have not participated in RAPP may receive a follow-up phone interview.

Successful candidates for the facilitator roles (RAPP, RAPPORT, ARJ) and the ARJ Process Observer may be asked participate in an interview.

RAPP XXVIII: Recognizing Participation

RAPP XXVIII started out the year strong in terms of attendance.  They got the same message all groups in recent years get:

The RAPP commitment is being present in body and mind at all meetings and retreats.

This commitment is featured heavily in the application, the RAPP interview, the RAPP Orientation, the actual group-created RAPP Agreement, and they get inundated with print and digital copies of the schedule with the above refrain repeated over and over.

I've been tracking member participation since RAPP XXIV and found a disturbing trend - steadily declining attendance across the board.  Many hours were spent by SALD and RAPP staff and leaders sorting through the issue.  It was part of the motivation for returning to one RAPP group and creating Accelerating Racial Justice.

RAPP XXVIII changed the game!  The retention of members over the year held steady and strong: 85% of those who committed to the process completed it.  The participation of members returned to a high level: Members averaged attending 88% of the sessions.

This is no small feat! We've got a group of busy people: they're all students, most work at least one job, most are involved in other organizations, and everyone has a lot of commitments to manage.  On top of that, there are the unexpected events like illness, accidents, family issues, and schedule changes.

Every year a core group shows us that being at everything is possible.  At our banquets and here online, we recognize those who were able to fulfill the commitment they signed up for to "be present in mind and body" in at least the "body" portion.  This year's group was a little bigger than previous.

L to R: Leah, Kalilah, Lindy, Marquez, and Nathaniel

Near-Perfect Attendance
These people attended all RAPP XXVIII meetings and retreats except one:
Kalilah Montgomery
Leah Baccus
Lindy Zeff
Marquez White
Nathaniel Bell

L to R: Abbey, Anthony, Bridget, Kahvah, Maya, Rebekah, Sabria, and Shawnee

Perfect Attendance
These people attended all RAPP XXVIII meetings and retreats:
Abbey Falcone
Anthony Foster
Bridget Parham
Kahvah YisraEL
Maya Whyte
Rebekah Clinger
Sabria Berry
Shawnee Haslon

In front, our Peer Leaders Kristin Myers- Young, Farooq Alkhateeb, and Tianshu Lu.  Photobombing in back, Facilitator Brice Mickey.

Student Leaders
Our Peer Leaders are indispensable to the group and the process.  Their commitment blows me away!

They have already completed a full year of RAPP with great attendance and then sign up for another. With that in mind, the commitment they sign on to is to participate in 3/4 of the sessions.  All three of our leaders went above and beyond this year!  Tianshu even had perfect attendance and Farooq missed only one session while he was out-of-town at a professional conference.

Our Student Facilitator is also pivotal.  Facilitating sessions is actually less than half of his role - Brice participates in the recruitment of members, planning the sessions through which we implement the curriculum, participating in assessment and utilizing feedback, administrative tasks, supporting Peer Leaders, and participating in his own training.  Whew!  He did this with perfect attendance, too!


Many thank you to all these phenomenal RAPPers!

Meet the RAPP 2012-13 Leadership in Their Own Words!

Tonight is orientation night for RAPP XXVIII!  What better day to highlight the students who are holding formal leadership positions in RAPP this academic year.

Brice Mickey - RAPP XXVIII Facilitator

Hello RAPPers! I look forward to meeting all of you.  I was a member of RAPP XXV and I'm a student at UC.  If you want to know anything else, JUST ASK!

Farooq Alkhateeb - RAPP XXVIII Peer Leader

Hi RAPPers! I'm Farooq Alkhateeb and I'm going to be one of your Peer Leaders for RAPP XXVIII. I am a graduate of RAPP XXVII and I liked it so much that I decided to be a leader for you all!  I became interested in social justice when I first heard about RAPP two years ago.  I've always enjoyed discussing and sharing my culture with other people.  If there was on thing that I could personally change, it would be people' perceptions of Muslims and Arabs.

My hobbies include playing with computers, weightlifting, swimming, and cooking.  I'm a senior majoring in IT.  I can't wait to meet you!

Jamieson Williams - RAPPORT 2012-13 Facilitator

I am a third year E-Media major.  Part of RAPP XXVII last year.  I will now be taking on the role of Facilitator in RAPPORT for the 2012-2013 school year.  I've always enjoyed learning about social issues in society and since RAPP, learning how to educate and solve them.  Knowing is only half the battle, how you process and share that information is what makes the difference.

 Kristin Myers-Young - RAPP XXVIII Peer Leader

My name is Kristin Myers-Young. I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know all of you.  I am a Senior Communication and Africana Studies Minor.  I have been blessed to work as a Student Orientation Leader in 2009, and currently a Student Orientation Coordinator ever sense then. I am truly honored to be your Peer Leader this year because RAAP has changed my life tremendously and it my way of giving back to this great program by helping you in your journey.  I believe that we have a lot to learn from each other so that we can truly improve our world!

Rebecca Lehman - RAPP Program Coordinator

Rebecca is a proud alumna of RAPP XXII and has been a leader with RAPP since 2007.  She views social justice education as awareness & skill development work that everyone can do.  She is most personally passionate about education and activism around issues of race, gender, sexuality, and the intersections between them.  She greatly enjoys educational program planning and curriculum development.
Rebecca is a second generation Bearcat with degrees in English Literature (BA) and Community Health Promotion & Education (MS). She's a graduate of the UC University Honors Program.  Her hobbies include playing ukulele, reading about communicable diseases, and practicing yoga.

 Tianshu Lu - RAPP XXVIII Peer Leader

Tianshu is a senior Accounting student at UC. She is a RAPP XXVI alumn.  Her currently favorite quotes are "anything you can imagine is true" and "nothing happened by chance."  Her hobbies include photography, random drawing, and cooking.  She likes RAPP because it's very diverse.  She thinks that "Each One Teach One" is a good way to learn.

2012-13 RAPP Leaders Pre-Service Training

The behind-the-scenes leaders of RAPP XXVIII and RAPPORT 2012-13 started our pre-service training last night!  Each year, the team of folks who guide the implementation of the RAPP & RAPPORT curricula undergo several evenings of training to develop as a team and prepare for the year ahead.

More detailed biographies will come later, but in the meantime meet the 2012-13 team:

Brice Mickey (back row, center) - RAPP XXVIII Facilitator, RAPP XXVI Peer Leader, Social Justice League 2010-2012, RAPP XXV alum
Farooq Alkhateeb (back row, left) - RAPP XXVIII Peer Leader, RAPP XXVII alum
Jamiesone Williams (front row, center) - RAPPORT 2012-13 Facilitator, RAPP XXVII alum
Kristin Myers-Young (back row, right) - RAPP XXVIII Peer Leader, RAPP XXV alum
Rebecca Lehman (front row, left) - Program Coordinator, RAPP XXII alum
Tianshu Lu (front row, right) - RAPP XXVIII Peer Leader, RAPP XXVI alum

Accelerating Racial Justice 2012!

We did it!  RAPP successfully premiered a new intensive: Accelerating Racial Justice!

Sixteen UC students participated in the inaugural run, diving wholeheartedly into the challenges of racial justice and inclusive leadership.  Nine students and staff led the experience as ARJ staff.

Check us out below!

Our official group photo for the RAPP Office.  We're excited to be displayed as the first in what will hopefully soon grow into a wall of ARJ photos!

Participants spent sessions in a variety of groupings:  solo work, pair work, trios, small groups, half groups, racial groupings, and the large group.  Each day, people also spent time with their Small Group - 6-7 people with whom they built intentional relationship as well as worked with to give feedback on the day.  Each group was facilitated by a Peer Leader.

Jalisa's Small Group: Peggy Shannon-Baker, Kara Mate, Maesa Idries, Taylor Turnbull, Brian Barney, and Jalisa Holifield

Laura's Small Group: Sally Amkoa, Greg Gamble, Naila Merchant, Ryan Fox, Vicky Nguyen, Laura Perez, and Ben Kitchen

Matt's Small Group: Kate Khazanova, Jazmyn Battie, Kenzie Austin, Kenny Day, Matt Miller, and Amanda Pancioli

ARJ 2012 Staff: Rebecca Lehman, Laura Perez, Jalisa Holifield, Melissa Meyer, Ani Naik, Jojo Azevedo, Matthew Woodruff, Matt Miller, and Shyamal Ruparel

Many thanks to the outstanding, creative, and hard-working committee of folks who helped make ARJ a possibility!

Welcome the RAPP 2012-13 Leadership!

This year's selection of the formal RAPP leadership positions was the most difficult process I've been through yet.  We had twenty-three outstanding candidates for an intended ten positions.

Much gratitude is due to the folks who helped made the selections!  A team of staff and students from RAPP, SALD, Resident Education & Development, Academic Excellence & Support Services, and the LGBTQ Center carefully reviewed applications and worked together to make the final decisions.

Without further ado, here are the folks selected for the formal leadership positions:

Accelerating Racial Justice

• Facilitators:
• Ani Naik (XXVI, XXVI Social Committee Chair)
• Jojo Azevedo (XXIV, XXVI Peer Leader, XXVII Facilitator, Social Justice League 2010-12)
• Peer Leaders:
• Jalisa Holifield (XXVII)
• Laura Perez (XXVII)
• Matt Miller (XXVI, Social Justice League 2011-12)
• Process Observers:
• Matthew Woodruff (XXVI, Peer Leader XXVII, Social Justice League 2011-12)
• Melissa Meyer (Community member, owner Meyer Consulting)

RAPP XXVIII

• RAPP Facilitation Intern:  Brice Mickey (XXV, XXVI Peer Leader, Social Justice League 2010-12)
• Peer Leaders:
• Farooq Alkhateeb (XXVII)
• Krisin Myers-Young (XXV)
• Tianshu Lu (XXVI)

RAPPORT 2012-13

• RAPPORT Facilitation Intern: Jamieson Williams (XXVII)

Please extend congratulations and heart-felt wishes for success to these folks as they enter into their new positions!

RAPPing up 2012

From: Marjorie Bledsoe, Public Ally for RAPP 2011-2012

Working with RAPP and Public Allies this year has been amazing! I’ve learned so much that it’s hard to sum it all up. I have solidified my love of community, relationships, and Social Justice Education through my ten months of service. I didn’t realize how many groups of amazing influential people I belong to; the interconnectedness of these communities has never been more apparent. I guess I wasn’t paying close enough attention, or maybe I’m just now positioned to feel like I’m really part of it all.

My journey to working with Public Allies and RAPP started in 2009, when I joined RAPP XXV. Through RAPP I met someone who introduced me to the Northside Family Dinner community. I quickly became friends with the folks who host and attend Family Dinner, many of whom are Public Allies Alumni. As I went through RAPP, Family Dinner served as my support network; I would go straight from meetings to Dinner and debrief on what I’d learned. Concepts of privilege and oppression were new to me, and although I’d experienced these dynamics throughout my life, I’d never realized how valid my own experiences actually were. My Family Dinner community and RAPP legitimized so much of what I’d been told wasn’t real about my life experience. Major medical issues and divorce are only a couple of examples of what I was faced with during this time, and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to support me through such a difficult part of my life.

In 2010-2011 I took on a Peer Leader position with RAPP XXVI, became active in RAPPORT (RAPP’s alumni program), and joined the newly formed Social Justice League. I continued to build upon the foundation of awareness and appreciation for myself and others I gained in my RAPP XXV experience. I finally possessed the confidence to take what I’d learned of myself and my experiences out into the world. I did workshops and trainings with the Social Justice League, had difficult and emotional conversations with my family and friends, and I came out.

During this time I was encouraged to explore the Public Allies program by Rebecca Lehman and my friends who were Public Allies Alumni. These folks supported me through the application process which is daunting, especially for those who are financially limited. If not for their support I don’t know that I would have made it through the process or gotten the job, as I was initially rejected as an applicant. I’m so thankful for all of these people; I feel as though I am on a path that will only lead to bigger and better things as a result of participating in Public Allies.

My experience with Public Allies and RAPP had been so rich and rewarding that I don’t know that I can fully describe all that I’ve gained. I spent this time planning, facilitating, networking, and learning. I have learned and accomplished so much in the last ten months that it will probably take just as long to process it all. I would like to share the video made by Rebecca Lehman about the RAPP Reflections show that is part of the ReRoot exhibit at the Clifton Cultural Arts Center. I think the video highlights some of the key things that happened in my life and in the RAPP XXVII Tuesday and Wednesday groups. Enjoy!

Introducing the RAPP XXVII Leadership Team

Tonight is the first of two pre-service trainings for RAPP XXVII facilitators and Peer Leaders, so I thought it a great day to announce who the team is!

Below are their pictures and biographies.

Jojo Azevedo - RAPP Facilitator, Communication Intern

Jojo Azevedo - RAPP XXVII Tuesday Facilitator 
RAPP XXIV, RAPP XXVI Peer Leader, Social Justice League 2010-11

My name is Jojo Azevedo. I am a fourth year student, studying communication. I am also an Aries who enjoys long walks down Calhoun Street, usually stopping for frozen yogurt. My RAPP commitment began as a member of RAPP XXIV. I continued my involvement the following year, attending RAPPORT meetings and working as Enrollment Facilitator. I then became a peer leader for RAPP XXVI. My overall experience with RAPP has given me so much, but most importantly, RAPP has challenged me to attain more insight into how myself and others perceive the world. This knowledge has endless possibilities. Now as a facilitator for RAPP XXVII, I hope to improve as a leader and better allow others to gain their own awareness.  

Marjorie Bledsoe - RAPP Facilitator, Public Ally

 Marjorie Bledsoe - RAPP XXVII Facilitator, Public Ally
RAPP XXV, RAPP XXVI Peer Leader, Social Justice League 2010-11

My name is Marjorie Bledsoe, I am from Oxford Ohio.  I am an artist and a musician, and I enjoy gardening and cooking.  I got involved with RAPP in 2009 while I was attending UC, and continued as a peer leader with the program last year. I am excited to be the RAPP Public Ally for the 2011-2012 schoolyear.  

Matthew Woodruff - RAPP Peer Leader

Matthew Woodruff - RAPP XXVII Tuesday Peer LeaderRAPP XXVI

Greetings to my fellow RAPPers. My name is Matt Woodruff and I will be one of your peer leaders for the RAPP XXVII Tuesday group. I am a second year student at UC studying Arabic as well as international human rights. My current ambition in life is to work for a non-governmental organization in southwest Asia or northern Africa that deals with human rights violations. As a freshman last year I feel that RAPP introduced me to a great group of people on and off campus and helped to further my knowledge on topics that I had only delved into previously on the surface. I am returning this year to RAPP in hopes to expand my knowledge even further on these issues, better understand how to serve as an advocate for underserved peoples, and connect with other individuals and gain insights into how they perceive the world and its issues. I am quick witted when it comes to humor, however my serious statements are a lot more thought out. I look forward to sharing laughs and serious conversations and hopefully benefiting your RAPP experience.

Mieshia Barnes - RAPP Peer Leader

Mieshia London Barnes - RAPP XXVII Tuesday Peer Leader
RAPP XXIV


My name is Mieshia Barnes AKA London I am a Peer Leader for Tuesday Group. I am a fourth year student, studying communication with a certificate in PR. I was a member of RAPP XXIV. My hair is always changing! I very nice and outspoken! I like to make people feel comfortable and I'm the weird one that will shout across campus to speak to you! lol hope this is a great year for everyone!

Rachel Berman - RAPP XXVII Facilitator, WGSS Intern

Rachel Berman - RAPP XXVII Wednesday Facilitator
 RAPP XXV, RAPP XXVI Peer Leader, Social Justice League 2010-11

My name is Rachel Berman and I'm a 4th year graduating senior doubling majoring in Political Science and Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies. I was a member of RAPP XXV and a Peer Leader in RAPP XXVI and will be serving as a facilitator for RAPP XXVII Wednesday. Outside of RAPP I am President of the Model United Nations team, an active member of Genderbloc, the former President of McMicken Student Ambassadors, as well as a member of A&S Tribunal and Ohio Advocates. Although I am always very busy RAPP is definitely my favorite and my top priority, so I'm really looking forward to this year!

Tyler Thompson - RAPP Peer Leader

 Tyler Thompson - RAPP XXVII Wednesday Peer Leader
RAPP XXV, Social Justice League 2010-11

I am a third year student studying neuroscience and psychology.  I was in RAPP XXV during my freshman year. I am currently pretty involved on campus as a member of GenderBloc, the founder of Colors of Pride, and now as a RAPP peer leader.  With the help of these groups and the national organization Advocates for Youth, I try to make UC a better place for LGBTQ students.  I really enjoy learning about social justice and I’m really excited about RAPP XXVII.

Wil Pierce - RAPP Peer Leader

Wil Pierce - RAPP XXVII Wednesday Peer Leader
RAPP XXV, Social Justice League 2010-11

Alumnus of RAPP XXV and two AmeriCorps programs, William Pierce is currently a graduate student in the Educational Studies program at the University of Cincinnati.  His studies focus on the politics behind educational and social inequalities.  William serves as an Assistant Residence Coordinator on campus, working with student workers and residents to maintain a healthy community within Stratford Heights. Also, he enjoys diverting RAPP conversations toward religion, politics, ethics, and humor when the opportunity arises.

Looking for a Few Good Peer Leaders - Apply to be a RAPP Peer Leader!

It's "that time!" RAPP is looking for four to five awesome RAPP graduatess to be Peer Leaders for RAPP XXVII.

To be considered for the position, you must meet three criteria:

• Have previously fully completed a RAPP year
• Will be an enrolled UC student throughout 2011-12
•  Are capable of committing to a full academic year as a Peer Leader

Peer Leaders commit to attending training in late-September to early-October and participate in most of the meetings and retreats for the RAPP group with which they work (at least ¾ of meetings and 2/3 of retreats). Peer leaders also meet at least one time per quarter as a group to reflect on the RAPP process together and explore to how continue to challenge themselves and their group.
 
Peer Leaders each identify their own goals for what they'd like to get out of the process and what they'd like to do in the year. No two Peer Leader paths are the same - some work on developing facilitation skills, others focus on helping RAPPers build relationships, others focus on supporting groups through the challenges of RAPP, others focus on their own development in communication and leader, and more. We like variety in the Peer Leaders and their work.
 
If you'd like to learn more about the Peer Leader role and/or would like to apply, contact Rebecca Lehman by noon on Monday, August 22nd to receive the application questions (which will be due by August 29th). 


The selected Peer Leaders will be announced by mid-September.

I feel like every year I say this, but goodness is it going to be hard to beat this year's leadership team!
(back row l-r: Marjorie (XXV), Kinsey (XXIII), Jojo (XXIV), Brice (XXV)
front row l-r: Rachel (XXV), Amber (XXV), Kimmins (XXIII), Rebecca (XXII))

Recognizing Attendance - Off to a Strong Start in RAPP!

Each quarter in RAPP we have four three-hour meetings and an overnight retreat.  On the one hand, it's only five times we come together.  On the other, we're a group of students - meaning we usually have a lot going on and with unexpected issues like personal or family illness or accidents it can be hard to make it to everything.

With that in mind, I like to take time each quarter to recognize the many students who overcome these challenges and make it to every meeting and the retreat.  For RAPP XXVI, the following students have had perfect attendance in fall quarter 2010:

Tuesday Group:

Adolphe H

Alexis S

Alix L

Allison F

Andrew B

Ani N

Aubrey R

Britney B

Cat F

Dan P

Jarred C

Jasmine L

Kyle C

Marc B

N'deye B

Sara S-H

Shanade C

Shy R

Siva I

Tiara S

Toni B

Wednesday Group:
AJ E

Alec J

Ali D

Allison M

Chris L

Courtney B

David T

Joey S

Julianna F

Kevin W

Lance S

Matt M

Matt W

Rachel W

Sarah B

Sarah K

Tianshu L

Our Peer Leaders have a lesser expectation on attendance than our RAPP members (they are required to participate in 2/3 of the meetings/retreats) - but all five have had perfect attendance as well!  Good job Amber E, Brice M, Jojo A, Marjorie B, and Rachel B!

RAPP XXVI Tuesday waiting on the bus at Fall Retreat!

Meet the RAPP XXVI Peer Leaders!

We had many great RAPPers apply to be Peer Leaders with RAPP XXVI and it was a tough decision to select our five for the year.  The facilitation team and I are greatly looking forward to the year ahead with the amazing RAPPers!

Amber - Tuesday Peer Leader

Here's a quick intro to our RAPP XXVI Peer Leaders:

Amber - Tuesday
Amber was an active participant in RAPP XXV Wednesday group.  She's a post-graduate student preparing for medical school.

Brice - Tuesday Peer Leader

Brice - Tuesday

Brice was a great participant in RAPP XXV Wednesday group.  He's studying Information Technology in the College of Engineering and Applied Science.  He's currently a recruitment leader and has told RAPP XXVI "I like to be involved and you should too!"



Jojo - Wednesday

Jojo - Wednesday Peer Leader

Jojo is a well-known graduate of RAPP XXIV Wednesday group and volunteered behind the scenes with RAPP XXV (to all who ate food at Spring Retreat - thank Jojo!).   He also helped pick the new RAPP logo through his work on the RAPP Rebranding Committee.
Jojo is a leader in UC's Japanese American Student Society and active in UC Alliance.

Marjorie - Wednesday

Marjorie - Wednesday Peer Leader

Marjorie was the Terence L Jones Diversity Award winner in RAPP XXV Tuesday.  Here's her Peer Leader bio:
I am 28, from rural Ohio, and an artist by trade. I’ve been a potter since I was 19, and for the past 5 years I have been teaching ceramics while attending college. I transferred to UC in 2009 from Hocking College where I studied the business of art and music. I am currently a junior in the DAAP fine arts program at UC, and hope to continue my education in a masters or doctoral program at UC. I am an eclectic person, and I love the diversity of the city. Attending UC and participating in the RAPP program has been an awakening experience for me. I now feel more confident in myself, and more understanding of the different perspectives we all have.

Rachel - Tuesday Peer Leader

Rachel - Tuesday

Rachel was a great member of RAPP XXV Wednesday.  Here's her Peer Leader Bio:
I'm a third-year Political Science and Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies double major, Pre-law. I am very involved on campus, especially with McMicken Student Ambassadors and Model UN. I'm really interested in all things RAPP and I can't wait to be a Peer Leader with RAPP XXVI.




We've got a great year ahead with some outstanding Peer Leaders for our excellent new group of RAPPers!

Final Days for Peer Leader Applications!

As mentioned earlier this month, we're taking applications for Peer Leaders with RAPP XXVI.

Peer Leaders are an amazing group of students who complete a second year with RAPP serving as a mentor for the current group. The only qualifications are to have successfully completed a RAPP year and to still be a UC student.

Peer Leaders set their own agenda in terms of what they want to get out of the role. Some areas folks have worked on in the past include developing facilitation skills, understanding group dynamics, working on listening skills, continuing work on crosscultural communication skills, session/program planning, and relationship building. Also, Peer Leaders tend to have a lot of fun!

Peer Leaders commit to attending training in mid-September and attend/help at most of the meetings and retreats for the RAPP group with which they work (at least 3/4 of meetings and 2/3 of retreats). Peer Leaders also meet at least on time per quarter with the program coordinator to check in on how they think things are going and what can be done to make their experience more valuable for them.

If you are interested in becoming a Peer Leader, time's running out to apply! Contact Rebecca at 513.556.6119 or lehmanrl@uc.edu by the end of the day this Wednesday, September 1st!
(pic - RAPP XXV Wednesday Peer Leaders at the year-end banquet, Kimmins is presenting DeVorah to the group)

Peer Leaders - The Search is On!

It's that time of year! It's time for us to reach out to RAPPers in search of the amazing few that will commit to a second year with RAPP serving as a mentor to current members!

In the last few years, Peer Leaders have included such amazing folks as Tad M, Krystal S, DeVorah Y, Kimmins S, Nancy P, Kinsey B, Deanna H, Maika A, Chantal I, and Mia S.

They largely get to identify what they'd like to get out of the process and what they'd like to do in the year, so some Peer Leaders work on developing facilitation skills and others focus on building outside relationships, and others focus on supporting others through challenging points and more.

Peer Leaders commit to attending training in mid-September and attend/help at most of the meetings and retreats for the RAPP group with which they work (at least 3/4 of meetings and 2/3 of retreats). Peer Leaders also meet at least on time per quarter with the program coordinator to check in on how they think things are going and what can be done to make their experience more valuable for them.

If you're a RAPPer who'd like to learn more about becoming a Peer Leader, contact Rebecca at lehmanrl@uc.edu or 513.556.6119. Selections for Peer Leaders will be made the first week of September – so to be considered for this leadership position, you’ll need to let us know about your interest by Wednesday, August 31^st.

(pic - Krystal and Tad, PLs for the Tuesday group of RAPP XXV)

Our Growing, Awesome Team

We've got two outstandingly talented facilitators hired - Sarvani & Tara. Now we're getting into place our RAPPORT Peer Leaders. We've got three for sure, one possibly, and have room for one or two more.

Introducing the line-up so far:

Tad Miller

Nancy Paraskevopoulos

DeVorah YisraEL

Tad was a member of the RAPP XXIV Sunday group. He was known for his openness to being challenged, genuine engagement, and his humor. Tad is also an RA on campus in Calhoun Hall.

Nancy was a member of the RAPP XXIV Wednesday group and was recognized with the 2009 Terrence L Jones Diversity Award. She was known for her passion, her background and work in activism, and her verbal eloquence. She was active in many student groups on campus and helped organize the Midwest CANference last spring.

DeVorah was a member of the RAPP XXIV Wednesday group and participated as a first-year student. She was known for her powerful questions, her self-awareness, and her critical thinking. She is a 2nd-year student at UC studying Communications and Spanish.

I'm excited for our amazing team this year and can't wait to see the great work these folks do!

(pics-from Spring and Winter RAPP Retreats)
-Rebecca