By the numbers: The Garthwait Leadership Center’s lasting impact

Over the past 15 years, the Garthwait Leadership Center (GLC) has empowered Gettysburg College students and alumni to lead with purpose through transformative programs, outdoor experiences, and personalized coaching.

For 15 years, the Garthwait Leadership Center (GLC) has empowered Gettysburg College students to lead with purpose—on campus, in their communities, and throughout the world. Through immersive programs, personalized coaching, outdoor adventures, and group development opportunities, the GLC has helped shape a culture of reflection, collaboration, and service that defines the Gettysburg experience.

Bob Garthwait Jr. ’82, CEO of Cly-Del Manufacturing in Waterbury, Connecticut, established the GLC in 2010. A proud Gettysburg alumnus, Garthwait envisioned a center that would prepare students not only to succeed, but also lead with integrity and compassion. His generous endowment made that vision a reality, laying the foundation for the GLC’s mission to develop leaders who act with curiosity, courage, and a commitment to the common good.

Read on to learn more about the substantial impact the GLC has made on our community.

Andy Hughes along with Paul Miller and Bob Garthwait, Jr. ’82 at the GLC 15th anniversary celebration during Homecoming. — Executive Director Andy Hughes (right) along with Director Paul Miller and founder Bob Garthwait, Jr. ’82 at the GLC 15th anniversary celebration during Homecoming.

15 years of leadership

From the GLC’s introduction in the fall of 2010, Executive Director Andy Hughes has maintained the organization’s mission to promote leadership and encourage students to become active leaders and participants in their communities. A native of Broomfield, England, Hughes has a Ph.D. in administration and leadership studies and is an impactful figure on campus, helping students, staff, and faculty discover their leadership potential and capacity for service. Under his guidance, the GLC has reached more than 18,000 students over the last 15 years.

Students participate in a leadership and teamwork-building activity on Stine Lake under the supervision of GLC Director Paul Miller.

7,000 student participants

The GLC has provided learning opportunities and programming to more than 7,000 students over the last 15 years. These activities have ranged from student panels and classroom discussions on campus to hikes and canoeing in the backcountry. On campus or off, GLC programming encourages reflection, embraces challenges, and inspires self-discovery.

Raphael Rudatsikira ’27, Mason McFarland ’27, and Omer Shamil ’27 celebrate completing the GLC Leadership Certificate program.

746 leadership certificates

Nearly 750 students have participated in the GLC’s one-year leadership certificate program. Participants engage in collaborative learning groups, one-on-one coaching opportunities, personal reflections, and a group project. After completing the certificate program, students present their leadership learning and group project work at the Gettysburg College Leadership Showcase each April.

The GLC organized a sea kayaking trip to the Sea of Cortez in January 2024.

89 outdoor learning experiences

From hiking in nearby Michaux State Forest to kayaking alongside whales in the Gulf of California, the GLC offers students opportunities to explore the world around them. These experiences help students develop essential skills like teamwork and communication, and they provide multiple avenues for reflection and personal growth.

Located on the second floor of the College Union Building, the GLC office features a conference room for groups to meet with leadership facilitators.

306 campus partner collaborations

The Group Development program gives student and staff organizations across campus an opportunity to work on leadership development through workshops and outdoor activities. Whether it’s classroom team-building exercises or training on the outdoor Challenge Course, campus organizations realize the strength and potential of their team members under the supervision of experienced GLC facilitators.

Alumni and friends returned to Gettysburg to celebrate its 15th anniversary on Oct. 3, 2025.

285 alumni served

Leadership development doesn’t stop when students graduate from Gettysburg. The GLC ensures continued growth by offering programming that helps alumni work toward their leadership goals. Skills-Based Leadership Coaching is a personalized service that connects young alumni with trained leadership coaches for approximately 12 weeks.

Start your leadership journey at Gettysburg College today.