V. Check YourselF before you wreck the crown: balancing duty over ego in royal Leadership

Travis Fredrick, MBA, Assistant Director of Student Engagement and Leadership, Co-Royal Court Advisor, Bowie State University

This engaging and reflective session is designed to challenge and empower royal court members to understand the difference between personal emotions and professional responsibilities in their leadership roles. “Check Yourself Before You Wreck the Crown” explores the most common emotional, social, and interpersonal challenges that arise when serving as a university ambassador and how unchecked personal reactions can undermine one’s ability to lead, represent, and reign with dignity.

Participants will engage in real-talk discussions and scenarios that reflect moments when they must choose duty over ego, representation over retaliation, and poise over pride. Whether navigating criticism, maintaining composure in public, or staying engaged even when morale is low, this workshop offers practical strategies for retaining the crown with grace, integrity, and self-awareness.

Learning Objectives:
By the end of the session, participants will:

• Identify common challenges that test emotional maturity in royal leadership roles
• Understand the core expectations of serving as a university ambassador
• Reflect on personal behavior and recognize when ego or feelings may interfere with the mission
• Practice strategies for responding to conflict, burnout, and miscommunication without compromising the crown

Takeaways:  

• “Royal Realities” Reflection Guide
• Conflict Response Framework for Student Leaders
• Group discussion materials for future court trainings

Audience: Open to All- Kings, Queens, and Advisors