Plan to replan The pandemic has changed life at home and at work and has tested me in many ways I never thought would happen. It is difficult to find words to describe how COVID-19 has affected me as a leader at the Roanoke Higher Education Center, but I have learned some valuable lessons during these challenging times. • It is okay to have a plan, but understand you may have to shift course and “fly by the seat of your pants,” is an apt aviation saying for a pandemic. We have to adjust to the situations at hand and make decisions as things occur.
GUEST COMMENTARY By Dr. Kay Dunkley Executive Summary: RHEC’s director shares her pivoting over this past year.
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Give grace to others by showing empathy, compassion, and understanding. We are in this situation together no matter our age, ethnicity, or income level. The world is suffering, and this pandemic is overwhelming to us all.
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Expect the unexpected. As an individual who likes to plan, organize, and think ahead, COVID has taught me to pivot. I am learning how to give myself permission to do the best I can knowing it may not be perfect.
• Forge ahead. How do I help others adjust to change when it is hard for me? My actions show my vulnerability, but it also demonstrates I am human. •
Collect feedback. We asked the RHEC staff to reply to a “well-being survey.” Questions on a 5-point scale from “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree” included: “I generally have positive feelings about my work,” “My current levels of stress feel manageable,” and “What is one thing RHEC can do to better support your well-being?” The survey’s results helped the executive team better understand how we could lend support. Gaining employees’ trust is vital. Thankfully, our budget has allowed us to not lay off employees, and our remote work schedules have proven effective.
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No matter the situation, use your moral compass to map out your flight plan. We are dealing with a new normal, but we still need to focus on making good decisions. The heart discovers the words the brain needs to put into action, and I aim to lead with fairness and integrity.
Dr. Kay Dunkley is the executive director of the Roanoke Higher Education Center. An overview and descriptions RHEC programs can be reviewed at www.education.edu or you can call 540-767-6007 for more information. [ kay.dunkley@education.edu ]
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