Higher Ground Outdoor Program a success

By Daniel Armstrong
Staff Writer

In its first year of operation, the Higher Ground Outdoor Program looks as if it will hit the ground running here at UNCP.

Scott Haith, the program coordinator for the Regional Center, guides the participants through many challenging exercises
called the Ropes Course. It requires joint efforts from everyone
in the group.

“It’s a way to teach teamwork, communication skills, problem solving, conflict resolution and management to others,” Haith said.

Melanie Clark, the director of Leadership and Community Service here at UNCP, is also the overseer of LSOP (Leadership and Service Opportunities Program). LSOP is using the Higher Ground course to host leadership workshops throughout the year for anyone who would like to attend.

“It’s a very valuable and practical way to explore personal and interpersonal challenge,” she said. She hopes students will learn from the hands-on approach the program offers.

SGA Vice President Alphonza Thomas said: “This is a great teambuilding exercise. Everyone should do it. The team I worked with was great.”

Jared Williams said: “Actually, you learn a heck of a whole lot. It was fun.”

Brittany Andrews believes it was a learning experience that required her to put her ego on the backburner.

The highlights of the Ropes course are the Alpine Tower and the Climbing Wall, 50-foot structures that you can climb, by yourself or with friends.

Not just UNCP students utilize the facilities, but sports teams, fraternities, sororities and grade school students also use the Higher Ground Program to build leadership skills and trust throughout their groups.

To schedule a meeting, contact the Regional Center at 522-8410 or the Student Activities Office at 521-6605.