On Friday, March 28, 2025, Catholic Central hosted a Dale Carnegie DRIVE Development Day workshop, where students learned and practiced leadership skills. 

Led by Kathy Tosoian, MA, LPC, Director of Educational Services and Youth Development with Dale Carnegie Courses offered by Will Enterprises, Inc., the session focused on the Nine Steps to Becoming a Successful Leader. Dale Carnegie is known for his influential books and leadership courses. 

During the workshop, Kathy emphasized that leadership is not something people are simply born with; it is developed through hard work and determination. She challenged students to reflect on the fears that hold them back the most. 

To overcome fear, students explored one of Carnegie’s famous principles: "Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy."

Kathy taught students that the first step toward confidence is saying your name with certainty. She explained that leaders need to leave a lasting impression, and that begins with a strong, clear introduction. She had students stand up and practice stating their names with confidence - slowly, clearly, and with a pause between their first and last name.

The workshop then shifted focus to another of Carnegie’s famous teachings: How to Win Friends and Influence People. Kathy walked students through key principles for building strong relationships and becoming a more effective leader:

• Avoid criticism. Rather than condemning others, seek to understand them.
   
• Give honest appreciation. Sincere recognition fosters success, while insincere flattery falls flat.
   
• Encourage cooperation. Before persuading someone, ask: How can I make them want to do this?
   
• Be genuine. Strong relationships should be mutually beneficial, not transactional.
   
• Smile. Happiness comes from our attitude, not just our circumstances.
   
• Use people’s names. Remembering and using names makes others feel valued.
   
• Listen with full attention. Being engaged and focused shows respect and builds trust.
   
• Think about others. Focusing on others fosters deeper, more meaningful relationships.
   
• Build people up. Everyone thrives when they feel important and appreciated.
   

Students then participated in a group discussion, reflecting on which leadership principle was most challenging for them and why. They considered how applying these principles daily could impact their relationships with family, friends, and peers.

To close, Kathy challenged students to commit to strengthening an important relationship in their lives. Each student wrote down:

• The person they want to build a stronger connection with
   
• The breakthrough they hope to achieve
   
• The Dale Carnegie principles they will apply
   
• What actions they will take
   
• How improving this relationship will impact their lives
   

Students left the workshop with a deeper understanding of leadership and actionable steps to enhance their relationships and personal growth.