Chidsey was created to start in the 2006-2007 academic year, so that leadership opportunities and education across campus could be coordinated. From the website in 2007: "The Chidsey Leadership Development office is charged with ensuring that Davidson students have access to a comprehensive set of student leadership development programs. This effort is consistent with the college's statement of purpose which states, "The primary purpose of Davidson College is to assist students in developing human instincts and disciplined and creative minds for lives of leadership and service." We believe that leadership is best learned by combining an understanding of leadership theory and strategies with real-life experience. Therefore, the Chidsey office will provide programming that enables students to learn about leadership while connecting students to leadership opportunities on campus and in the community. Because we believe that all students have both the potential and the responsibility to exercise leadership for the common good, we will provide programming that is relevant to formal leaders and committed participants."