Senior Wyatt Thompson has been selected as the Student Leader of the Month for April 2024. Originally from Columbia, Missouri, Thompson came to the U of A to study mechanical engineering with an aerospace emphasis. He is a member of the Arkansas Air National Guard, external liaison for the student chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and intercollegiate coordinator for Engineering Student Council. He got involved in these organizations because he wanted to give back to the university community and make a difference for future students. 

Thompson believes one of the most vital qualities in a leader is to be compassionate and adaptable. 

“As being a leader necessitates interpersonal interactions, it is imperative to have compassion and an understanding for those under your care. Equally important, however, is the ability to manage dynamic problems and situations so that you can lead your organization through an ever more complicated world.” 

He wants to encourage others to know that leadership is an uphill battle. 

“You will never be as good as you need to be, but as long as you are always focused on improving yourself and continuing the climb, you will be a better leader than you were the day before.” 

He would like to thank Joe Patch IV, founder of the Confio Group. 

“He has become an incredible mentor of mine. He has an incredible wealth of life experience, especially in the engineering world, and is always a source of guidance on both professional and spiritual matters.” 

He would like to leave everyone with his favorite leadership quote from Eric Greitens: "It is the responsibility of leadership to work intelligently with what is given and not waste time fantasizing about a world of flawless people and perfect choices.” 

The Student Leader of the Month award, sponsored by New Student & Family Programs, recognizes U of A undergraduate students for their excellence in leadership through campus involvement, leadership activities or through volunteer and community service. Find out more about the award.