Keiser University senior Jordan Odom is applying lessons learned from the Greatness Leadership Initiative: Transforming the World in the Face of Change toward the successful completion of her goal to become a medical doctor and her steadfast perseverance on the court as the Seahawk Volleyball Team Captain.

“The Greatness Leadership Initiative was a positive space for me to listen to incredible speakers while exploring my thoughts on various life experiences. Thanks to Don Yeager, Belinda Keiser, and their featured guests, I learned that true failure only occurs when we make an excuse for action instead of learning from it, so I am now more conscious about pushing forward while evaluating temporary setbacks,” reflected Odom, a Mobile, Alabama native who is majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Biomedical Sciences and Psychology.

Designed to help faculty, staff, and students navigate through the unprecedented pandemic while also maintaining a vision toward their personal, academic, and professional goals, the program was founded by Keiser University Vice Chancellor of Community Relations and Student Advancement Belinda Keiser in partnership with Don Yaeger, the author of Greatness: The 16 Characteristics of True Champions. It was launched as part of the university’s Fall 2020 semester as a call to action stemming from the unprecedented challenges presented by COVID19. Embraced widely by thousands of participants, it has provided inspiring insights from a variety of vibrant, service-oriented, and innovative leaders and athletes.

While crediting professors Justin Minnerly, Tina Mueller, Robin Schupper, and others for their ongoing time and attention, Odom is also thankful for the multicultural experience her time at Keiser has provided. “I have met so many different and amazing people from all walks of life as a Keiser student. My time at Keiser has helped to strengthen my communication, social, and leadership skills both inside the classroom and on the court,” smiled Odom, a four-year member of the volleyball team.

Keiser University’s Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies provides a comprehensive curriculum that allows broad exposure to multiple disciplines. The major provides a practical alternative for baccalaureate degree-seeking students whose needs cannot be met by individual majors. Students can design a course of study that meets their academic objectives and furthers their professional growth and development by combining two or more disciplines into a coherent program. The degree will combine general education courses with an interdisciplinary concentration, electives, and a capstone course.