Branson’s Men’s Leadership Affinity Group is creating a space for male-identifying students to gather, reflect, and challenge ideas of masculinity and leadership on campus. Meeting every other week, the group is led by eight students and supported by three faculty advisors: Aaron Bardo, Giles Scott, and Tony Pound.
As of this year, membership in Men’s Leadership has grown significantly, with around 40 students attending the most recent meeting, nearly a quarter of Branson’s male-identifying students. The leaders’ goal this year is to build consistency and encourage more students to see the group as a valuable space.
Senior leader Zander Alpert describes the group’s mission as “a chance to talk about things that pertain to males specifically in our community, like how to be a positive male figure and how to embody healthy masculinity.”
Recent meetings have taken on timely issues, including a student-led discussion on political violence following the Charlie Kirk shooting.
“I was very proud of the maturity everyone showed,” Alpert said. “It wasn’t about political opinions; it was about how we should respond to violence in general.”
The club also hosts an annual spring retreat for juniors and seniors, which Alpert described as a highlight.
“Last year at the Point Reyes overnight, I connected with people I’d never really talked to before. We had serious conversations about defining moments in our lives, our goals and struggles. It was an opportunity to bond on a deeper level,” said Alpert.
For co-leader Luke O’Connell ’26, leadership in the group is about ensuring everyone’s voice is heard.
“Speaking up, stating your opinion, and making sure everyone feels heard, that’s what matters most,” he said.
Luke emphasized the importance of inclusivity.
“You listen when others are talking, and the goal is discussion, not argument,” O’Connell said. “You see the person for who they are beyond their opinions.”
In addition to personal reflection, the group engages with broader issues of identity and current events. O’Connell recalled a discussion last year about transgender athletes and NCAA policies.
“We talked about how the executive order banning transgender athletes from women’s sports targets a minority group. It was meaningful to explore how we can advocate for inclusion,” he said.
Both Alpert and O’Connell agree on the message they want to extend to the student body.
“Just show up, even if it’s not people you usually hang out with; you’ll make bonds,” said Alpert.
“Come for the snacks, come for the discussions and meet some great people,” said O’Connell. “Real leadership starts when you stop talking and start listening.”
