Press distributed and written in partnership with MOGSLF
Valorie Gabrielli and Gabe Stark were two of 80 collegiate students nominated to represent North Central Missouri College at the Missouri Governor’s Student Leadership Forum (MOGSLF). The Forum provided students from across the state with an incredible opportunity to learn from influential leaders in various fields. Hosted at the Missouri State Capital, the event featured a dynamic lineup of speakers, including Governor Mike Kehoe, state legislators, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit leaders, who shared their experiences, wisdom, and insights with the next generation of leaders.
Dr. Kristen Alley, Vice President of Student Affairs said, “Valorie’s and Gabe’s selections are a testament to their character, hard work, and their potential as leaders in their chosen fields and in their communities. I am confident that the leadership forum has provided them with skills and insight that will continue to impact their academic and professional endeavors. We look forward to seeing them continue to grow and contribute as they represent NCMC and their hometowns in such a positive manner.”
The weekend also offered ample networking opportunities, where students engaged in meaningful conversations with the speakers and one another, exchanging ideas and forming connections that may serve them throughout their personal and professional journeys.
Gabe Stark said, “It was a really great experience to learn more about how to be effective leaders, the conference focused on how vulnerability is a key aspect of leadership that many people don’t feel comfortable expressing. My favorite part of the trip was getting to go tour the Jefferson city correctional center, it was really inspiring to see the purpose and dedication of a few of the people who were really trying to turn their lives around and were making some good out of the situation they put themselves in because of bad choices they had made.”
The 2025 Missouri Governor’s Student Leadership Forum equipped students with the tools, resources, and motivation to become the next generation of leaders in Missouri and beyond. As students left the forum, they were empowered to take what they had learned and apply it to their communities, schools, and personal lives.
Valorie Gabrielli said, “I was so excited to represent NCMC at the Missouri Governor’s State Leadership Forum. Going into the experience, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised. The forum presented leadership in a refreshing new light, emphasizing faith, values, and vulnerability—qualities we don’t often associate with strong leaders. I also had the opportunity to meet an amazing group of diverse women in similar positions. It’s hard not to form great friendships with people when discussing such deep and meaningful topics. We also took some incredible field trips, visiting the Capitol building, the Governor’s Mansion, a correctional facility, and even a local family’s home for dinner! The experience was truly special.”
The event began in 1988 under the leadership of former Missouri Governor and 79th U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft.
For more information about the Missouri Governor’s Student Leadership Forum and upcoming events, visit www.missourigslf.com, call 573-691-7572 or e-mail [email protected]
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