Dr. Roosevelt Ratliff discusses character and leadership development with Upward Bound Math and Science High School Students     Upward Bound Math and Science Students who are spending the summer taking courses at Claflin University were told about the importance of leadership and character development in achieving academic excellence.   Fifty eight high school students from eight states (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee) met with Dr. Roosevelt Ratliff, Professor and Assistant Vice President for Leadership Development at Claflin University, who discussed leadership challenges for this millennium, urging students to become aware of the critical issues they will face as professionals. “We want to prepare you for leadership and the global competition.”   Dr. Ratliff listed 42 leadership characteristics noting that the top three were honesty, integrity and confidence. “Keep in mind the Claflin University imperative,” he told students. “It is preparing students for leadership and service in a multicultural, global and technological society.”   Students responded positively to the leadership lecture according to Takeshia Taylor, a 17-year-old junior from Talladega, Alabama. She stated, “Dr. Ratliff gave a good message.” Kenneth D. Speight a junior from Smithfield, North Carolina was also positive. “Dr. Ratliff’s message inspired me to stand up and be a good leader.”   The high school students arrived at Claflin University on Sunday, June 3, to participate in the summer component of the Upward Bound Math and Science program, which was launched at Claflin 17 years ago. The federally funded project allows high school students to experience life on a university campus while taking advance courses in the university’s liberal arts environment.   Sharon Capers, Director of the Upward Bound Math and Science Program at the university said, “Skills developed by participating students significantly increase their potential to excel in math and science.” She added that the objective is to encourage students to recognize their talents and to pursue postsecondary degrees in these sought-after areas.   The highly motivated students, some who arrived by plane and others driven by their parents, will take a course in Latin and a variety of math and science classes, including biology, chemistry and physics. In addition, Upward Bound Math and Science students will study computer science and English composition and literature, all of which will give them academic advantages as they consider higher education options.   “Students who are interested in math and science will have ample opportunity to enhance their learning in these areas,” Capers pointed out. “Seniors will be able to shadow professionals in their career area of interest.” In addition weekly field trips will provide exposure to cultural and professional venues with educational commentary from staff at the respective facilities students visit.   This intensive six-week math and science program is funded by the Department of Education and students’ progress is measured through pre-tests and post-tests in all areas of study.