Dr. Michel Najjar
American University of Malta President
Shaping Minds of the Future!
DearReaders,
Inaworlddrivenbyconstanttransformationandinnovation,educationstandsasthe cornerstoneofprogress.Itisourpleasuretopresenttoourreadersthelatestedition“The 10InspirationalEducationLeaders,2023”ofTheEducationMagazine,highlightingthe remarkablecontributionsoftenindividualswhoareredefiningthelandscapeofeducation throughtheirvision,dedication,andcommitmenttoexcellence.
GracingthecoverofthiseditionisDr.MichelNajjar,atruetrailblazerinthefieldof education.AsthePresidentoftheAmericanUniversityofMalta,Dr.Najjar’svisionary leadershiphaspropelledtheinstitutiontonewheightsofacademicdistinctionandglobal prominence.Hisuniqueapproachtofosteringanenvironmentofinclusivityand collaborationhasnotonlyenrichedthestudentexperiencebuthasalsosetabenchmark forotherinstitutionstofollow
Thisedition’sprofilesdelveintothediverseaccomplishmentsofeducationluminaries.Dr EricJones,throughhispioneeringresearchinonlinelearning,hasreshapedthe boundariesofvirtualeducation,makingqualitylearningaccessibletoabroaderaudience. Dr.HakimJ.Lucas’srelentlesseffortsinadvocatingforeducationalequityhaveignited vitalconversationsaboutlevelingtheplayingfieldforallstudents,regardlessoftheir backgrounds.JamesGaudino’sinnovativestrategiesinbridgingthegapbetween academiaandindustryhaveredefinedtheconceptofvocationaleducation.Dr.Kimberly R.Cline,withherexemplaryleadershipinhighereducationadministration,has successfullychampionedinterdisciplinarylearningandglobalengagement,shaping graduatesintowell-roundedandculturallyawareindividualspreparedforthechallenges ofaglobalizedworld.
Asweexplorethelivesandaccomplishmentsoftheseeducationleaders,itbecomes evidentthattheircollectiveeffortsaredrivingeducationtowardabrighterfuture.Their storiesinspireustoreimaginethepossibilitieswithineducationandtocontinuepushing theboundariesoftraditionalpedagogy
Inthisfast-pacedera,wherechangeistheonlyconstant,theseteninspirationaleducation leadersareguidinglights,steeringeducationonapaththatalignswiththedemandsofthe modernworld.Wehopetheirstoriesmotivateourreaderstoembraceinnovation,foster inclusivity,andpersistentlystriveforexcellenceintheireducationalpursuits.
HappyReading!
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American University of Malta www.aum.edu.mt
Colorado State University Pueblo www.csupueblo.edu
Central Washington University www.cwu.edu
Long Island University www.liu.edu
Musashino Art University www.musabi.ac.
Trevecca Nazarene University www.trevecca.edu
Rowan University www.rowan.edu
University of Maine at Machias www.machias.edu
University of Asia and the Pacific www.uap.asia
Virginia Union University www.vuu.edu
Dr. Michel Najjar
NavigatingEducation throughTimesofChange
Dr.
MichelNajjarisadistinguished academicandthecurrentPresidentof theAmericanUniversityofMalta. BorninthenorthernLebanesevillage ofBichmizzinein1958,Dr.Najjarhas alwayshadapassionformathematics, literature,andpoetry.Duetothe LebaneseCivilWar,hecompletedhis tertiaryeducationintheUnitedStates, whereheobtainedaPh.D.inStructural EngineeringfromOklahomaState University.Dr.Najjarhassince dedicatedhiscareertoresearchand professionalpracticeintheUnited StatesandtheGulfArea,aswellas leadershiprolesatvariousacademic institutions,includingtheUniversityof BalamandandtheAmericanUniversity ofTechnologyinLebanon.
PriortohisappointmentasPresidentof theAmericanUniversityofMalta,Dr NajjarservedastheMinisterofPublic WorksandTransportintheLebanese Government.Withhiswealthof experienceinacademiaandpublic service,Dr.Najjarbringsaunique perspectivetohisroleasPresidentand ishonoredtocontributetothe developmentoftheAmerican UniversityofMaltainthevibrant EuropeanCountryofMalta.
ProminentRolesand ResponsibilitiesasPresident
AsthePresidentoftheAmerican UniversityofMalta,Dr.Michel Najjar’sprimaryresponsibilityisto ensurethattheinstitutionisupholding itsvaluesandcommitmentswhile contributingsignificantlytothe educationsectorofMaltaandbeyond. Inthiscapacity,Dr.Najjarplaysa prominentroleinguidingthe university’sstrategicdirectionand ensuringthatitmaintainsits commitmenttoacademicexcellence. Healsoleadsateamthatvalues diversityandappreciatesdifferences, recognizingthattheseaspectsenrich everyacademicendeavor.
Aspresident,Dr.Najjarisresponsible foroverseeingtheuniversity’s academicandadministrativefunctions, includingthedevelopmentand implementationofpoliciesand programsthatsupporttheinstitution’s missionandgoals.Heworksclosely withfaculty,staff,andstudentsto ensurethattheuniversity’sacademic programsareofthehighestqualityand thatstudentsreceiveawell-rounded educationthatpreparesthemfor successfulcareersandactive citizenship.
Inadditiontotheseresponsibilities,Dr. Najjarrepresentstheuniversityto externalstakeholders,including governmentofficials,industryleaders, andthegeneralpublic.Heis responsibleforbuildingand maintainingrelationshipswiththese groupstoensurethattheuniversityhas theresourcesandsupportitneedsto achieveitsmissionandgoals.
FromStudenttoUniversity President
Dr.Najjarhasalwayshadapassionfor educationandcontributingtothe developmentofuniversities.This interestwassparkedduringhistimeas astudentandhasbeenadrivingforce inhiscareereversince.After completinghisPh.D.,hebegan workingatvariousuniversities, includingtheUniversityofBalamand andtheAmericanUniversityof TechnologyinLebanon,before eventuallybeingappointedas PresidentoftheAmericanUniversity ofMalta.Dr.Najjarfindsgreat satisfactioningeneratingand disseminatingknowledgethrough researchandeducation,andhis dedicationtothisfieldisevidentinhis careertrajectory.
KeyAttributesandStrategiesfor EducationLeadership
Dr.Najjarbelievesthatthedynamics ofleadershipineducationhave undergonesignificantchangesoverthe pastfewdecades.Herecognizesthat educationleadersmustbeadaptable andflexible,abletorespondquicklyto changingcircumstancesandnew challenges.Inaddition,hebelievesthat educationleaderstodaymustbe knowledgeableaboutthelatesttheories andpracticesineducation,aswellas theregulationsandpoliciesthatimpact theirinstitution.
AccordingtoDr.Najjar,collaboration withothereducators,technology providers,regulators,andstudentsis alsocriticaltoensurethatthe institutionismeetingtheneedsofits stakeholders.Inadditiontothis,Dr Najjarbelievesthattheprerequisitesof agoodeducationleaderinclude adaptability,flexibility,anda willingnesstoembracechange. Educationleadersmusthaveadeep understandingofthelatesttheoriesand practicesineducation,aswellasthe abilitytoleveragetechnologyto enhancestudentlearning.
EffortstoFacilitateVirtualLearning
Dr.Najjarhasensuredthatthe AmericanUniversityofMaltais equippedwiththenecessary technologytofacilitatevirtual learning.Theuniversityhasalarge onlinelibraryavailabletostudents,and allclassesareequippedwithstate-ofthe-artvideoconferencingequipment, allowingstudentstoattendclasses remotely.Hehasalsoimplemented policiestoensurethatstudentshave accesstothenecessarysupportand resourcesforsuccessfulonline learning.Additionally,hehas encouragedfacultymemberstoadapt theirteachingmethodologiesto effectivelyengagestudentsinonline learningenvironments.
DiscussingthePotentialforChange intheEducationLandscape
Ifgiventheauthoritytochangethe currenteducationallandscape,Dr. Najjarwouldemphasizetheneedfora “fulldevelopment”educationthat preparesstudentsforfuturechallenges inlife.Hebelievesthatthistypeof educationshouldfocusondeveloping bothinterpersonalandintrapersonal skills,whicharecrucialforsuccessin anylineofwork.
Dr.Najjarwouldalsostrivetocreate student-centeredcommunitieswhere co-curricularexperiencesstrengthen andbroadenstudentlearningandsoft skilldevelopment.Hebelievesthat suchanapproachwouldhelpstudents developadeepersenseofpurposeand connectiontotheirstudies,aswellas toeachotherandtheworldaround them.
TheImportanceofLifelong LearningandDevelopment
Dr.Najjarwouldadviseindividualsto investineducation,asitisthegreatest investmenttheycanmakein themselves.Hebelievesthatlearning shouldbealifelongpursuitandthat individualswhocontinuetoenrich theirskillsandknowledgearebetter preparedtofacethechallengesofthe future.
AccordingtoDr.Najjar,educationis notjustaboutgainingacademic knowledgeandskills;itisalsoabout developingthewholeperson.He encouragesindividualstoseekout learningopportunitiesthathelpthem developtheirinterpersonaland intrapersonalskills,aswellastheirsoft skillssuchascreativity,critical thinking,andcommunication.
AbouttheAmericanUniversityof Malta
TheAmericanUniversityofMaltaisa private,modernuniversitylocatedin Cospicua,Malta.Itwasofficially announcedin2015andestablishedin September2016.Thecampusconsists ofthreemainsites,twoofwhichare situatedinDock1atCospicuaand havesignificanthistoricalheritage.The university’sfirstmaincampusis knownasthe“BritishBuilding,”which wasrehabilitatedtoservethecurrent agewhilemaintainingitshistoric
elements.Thecampusalsoincludestwoothersites,oneinCospicuaandoneinSmartCity,withplansfor expansionandhostingmorestudents.
TheuniversityisofficiallyaccreditedbytheMaltaFurtherandHigherEducationAuthorityandoffersnine undergraduateprogramsandsixgraduateprogramsinvariousfields,includingaccounting,business administration,engineering,graphicdesign,andcomputerscience.
TheAmericanUniversityofMaltahastakenseveralinitiativestopromotediversityandinclusionon campus,includinghostingstudentsfromover35differentnationalitiesandorganizingsocialeventsand sportsactivitiestofacilitateinteractionamongstudentsandfacultymembers.
“
Investing in Education is the greatest investment one could pursue to continue enriching their skills and to prepare for the challenges that the future holds.
TRANSFORMING BOTANY EDUCATION FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE
Dr
.EricJonesisaremarkableeducator transformingthelearningexperienceforbotany studentsandthecommunity AsanAssociate ProfessorofBotanyandFacultyPresidentatthe UniversityofMaineatMachias,Dr.Jonesiscommitted torevolutionizingeducation.Hisuniqueapproach empowersstudents,andtheeducationcommunityhighly regardshiscontributions.
With11yearsofexperienceasaprofessor,Dr.Joneshas gatheredknowledgefrominfluentialleadershehas encounteredthroughouthiscareer.Inhisview,educational leadersfaceachallengingtask:assistingstudentsin achievingtheirgoalswhilefosteringacultureofshared governancewiththefacultyresponsiblefordesigningand sustainingacademicprograms.
AccordingtoDr.Jones,influentialeducationalleaders possessessentialqualitiessuchashonesty,integrity, empathy,andawillingnesstoprioritizethegreatergood overpersonalinterests.Hefirmlybelievesthatleaders shouldapproachtheirroleasaserviceratherthana positionofpower.Withhispositiveoutlookonleadership, Dr.Jonesconfidentlyasserts, “I have been in leadership roles for most of my life and I’ve learned that a good leader sees their position as one of service rather than one of power.”
Let’sdelveintohisimpressivejourneyandexplorehis commitmenttotheeducationindustry.
EmbarkingonanEducationalJourney
FromhisearlydaysasamemberoftheBoyScoutsof America,Dr.Jonesdiscoveredhistruecalling:tomakea meaningfulimpactontheworld.Motivatedbyan unwaveringdetermination,hedevelopedanatural inclinationtopositivelyinfluencethelivesofothers throughactiveparticipationincommunityservice initiatives.Asafirst-generation,non-traditionalcollege studentatTallahasseeCommunityCollege(TCC),Dr Jones’scommitmenttoexcellencepropelledhimforward, ultimatelyleadingtohisbachelor’sandPh.D.inbiology fromtheprestigiousFloridaStateUniversity(FSU).
Whenitcametimetochooseaprofessionalpath,Dr Jones’sintuitiondrewhimtowardteaching,recognizingthe immensesatisfactionitbrings.Helpingindividualsand nurturingtheirintellectualgrowthbecamehissourceof profoundjoy,fueledbydeepcuriosity.Moreover,ashe delveddeeperintohisstudies,biologycapturedhis attentionwiththedeepcomplexityofDNAandthediverse ecosystemssurroundingus.
ShortlyaftercompletinghisPh.D.,Dr.Jonesembracedthe prominentroleofbotanyprofessorattheUniversityof MaineatMachias.Alongsidehisacademic accomplishments,heexcelledasateachingassistantacross disciplines,rangingfrommathematicstobiology,atboth TCCandFSU.Whilehisinitialresearchexploredplant matingsystems,hiscurrentpassionliesintransforming educationalpractices.
Motivatedtoengagestudentsactively,Dr.Jonesstandsat theforefrontofdevelopinggamifiedflippedclasses.This innovativeapproachignitesasenseofwonderinlearners insideandoutsidethetraditionalclassroomsetting. Simultaneously,heencouragesstudentinvolvementin conductingnaturalresourceinventoriesforaregionalland trust.Thiscollaborativeeffortspansvariouscourses,with studentsmeticulouslyplanningandexecutingthese inventories.Insupport,studentworkersintheherbarium diligentlycurateplantcollections,servingasaccompanying vouchersfortheproject.
EvolutionoftheUniversity
TheUniversityofMaineatMachias(UMM)hasarich historyrootedineducation.Initiallyestablishedin1952as theWashingtonStateTeachers’College,itevolvedfromthe WashingtonStateNormalSchool,foundedin1911.After joiningtheUniversityofMaineSystem(UMS)in1968,it becametheUniversityofMaineatMachiasin1970. Recognizingitsuniquelocationamongdiversenatural communitiesUMMexpandeditsfocustoincludescience andbiologyin1973.Today,UMMproudlyservesasthe regionalcampusoftheUniversityofMaine,collaborating withitscounterparttodefineamutuallybeneficial relationship.
DR. ERIC JONES
Associate Professor of Botany and Faculty President
University of Maine at Machias
PHOTOCREDITS - DR. ERIC H. JONES
ArrayofAcademicPrograms
TheUniversityofMaineatMachias (UMM)offersextensiveacademic programs,includingIntegrativeBiology, MarineBiology,Psychologyand CommunityStudies,Education,Small BusinessManagement,Recreationand OutdoorLeadership,andtheCreative Arts.Theseprogramsactivelycontribute tostudents’growthanddevelopment, equippingthemwithessentialskillsand fosteringadeepsenseofcommunity service.
Theinstitution’semphasisonservice learningdrivesstudentstoapplytheir classroomknowledgetopractical situations,establishinginvaluable connectionswithprospectiveemployers. Byengaginginhands-onexperiences, studentsgainaprofoundunderstandingof translatingtheoryintoaction,preparing themtoexcelintheirchosenfields.
“ When it came time to choose a career path, education made the most sense to me because I nd it a rewarding experience.
PHOTOCREDITS -
DR. ERIC H. JONES
Beyondtechnicalproficiency,UMM recognizestheimportanceof cultivatingsoftskillscrucialfor professionalsuccess.Effective communication,collaborative teamwork,andadaptabilityare nurtured;ensuringgraduatespossessa well-roundedskillsetthatempowers themtothriveindiversework environments.
AdvocacyforAcademic Empowerment
Dr.Jonesisaleaderforfacultyrights athisinstitutionandacrossthe universityaspresidentofthefaculty assembly.Hebridgesthegapbetween educatorsandadministratorsand diligentlyhearsallsides.Dr.Jonesalso promotesstudentempowermentby ensuringstudentparticipationat facultymeetingswheretheyarefreeto voicetheirownconcerns.
Inresponsetochangesinonlinecourse deliveryduringthepandemic,Dr.Jones hadtomodifyhisteachingmethods, notablytheflippedclassroomstrategy Heworkedtocreategamifiedcourse structuresthatutilizetheLearning ManagementSystem(LMS)topresent informationengagingly.Drawingfrom hisexperienceasalifelongplayerof role-playinggames,hecreatedafictional universewherestudentsutilizetheir knowledgetorespondtoinquiriesabout uniquespecies.Thisnarrative-based approachrecognizesandchallenges students’achievements.Theindividuals associatedwiththeCenterforInnovation inTeachingandLearningathis universityhavesupportedhimandhis colleaguesintheseefforts.
DiversityandInclusionontheCampus
Everysuccessfulinstitutefollowsa diversesystemofadministration.UMM’s visionofdiversityis “a resource that strengthens the learning process and energizes the campus community, being mindful that it can be a source of misunderstandings and wasted potential,” statesChristopherRichards, DirectorofEnrollment.Furthermore,Dr. Jonesaddsacouplemorestatements justifyingwhattheirperspective describesasdiversity
●Consideringthediversityandreflecting onandstrengtheningindividualand institutionalvaluesisessential.
●Researchhasshownthatdiversity initiativesaremoreeffectivein environmentswithsharedvalues suchasacademicexcellence,civic responsibility,self-respect,and goodwilltowardsthecampus community.
●UMMwarmlywelcomesinternational studentsandhighlyvaluestheir contributionstothecampus community.ExceptforCanadians,
“
Diversity is the tie that binds, linking together the curricular and the extracurricular, the individual and the collective, and one group to another.
– Christopher Richards, Director of Enrollment
whopayin-statetuitionfees, internationalstudentspaythesame tuitionasdomesticout-of-state students.
QuestforHolisticEducation
Achangeintheeducationsystemafter everyspecifiedtenureisessential. Whenaskedaboutpotentialchanges andintegration,Dr.Jonesresponded subtly
Heseekstoredefineeducationby bridgingcareerpreparednesswitha deepappreciationforliberalarts. Recognizingthevalueof interdisciplinarylearning,headvocates foraholisticframeworkthatfosters personalgrowthandenriches professionalendeavors.Drivenby genuineconcernoverthe commercializationofhighereducation, heaimstoshiftthefocusbacktoa comprehensiveeducationalmindset.
Withthepowertoeffecttransformative change,Dr.Jonesenvisionsafuture wherestudentspossesspracticalskills forsuccesswhileembracingabreadth ofdisciplinesthatnurturecritical thinkingandempathy.Throughhis visionaryleadership,hestrivesto
empowerstudentsasintellectually curious,sociallyaware,andadaptable individualsreadytonavigatea complexworld.Hence,hestates, “If I had the power to change one aspect of higher education, I would shift the focus to one of a deeper appreciation for a holistic educational mindset.”
WiseWordsofAdvice
Dr.Jonessuggeststhateducation leadersenactthefollowingpointsfor ahealthyeducationsystem.
●Iadvisethoseinacademiatopay closeattentiontoindividuals.We educateindividuals.Itisindividuals whocreateandmaintainprograms ofstudy.
●Appreciatingdiversitygoesbeyond justlookingatdemographicdata.It meansvaluingwhateachindividual contributestooursharedgoals.
●Tobeeffective,wemustcultivate empathy,humility,andcuriosity andbeopentolearningfromour students.
HABITSOF 7 THE EFFECTIVE PEOPLE HIGHLY
[SummaryandTakeaways]
“We came to the realization that in order to change the situation, we needed to initiate a transformation within ourselves.” Centraltothiseffectiveselftransformationwastheneedtomodifyour perceptions.Manyindividualsareconstantlystriving forself-improvement,asourhabitsgraduallyshapeus throughoutourlives.Thesebehavioralpatternsplaya crucialroleinforminginitialimpressionswhen interactingwithothers.Ifyouareanadultseeking waystoenhanceyourpersonalgrowth,‘The7Habits ofHighlyEffectivePeople’isavaluableresourcefor you.
StephenR.Covey,theauthor,profoundlyimpactedthe livesofnumerousindividualswiththisbook,which hasamassedover40millioncopiesinsales.This articleprovidesacomprehensivesummaryofthebook andhighlightsitssignificanttakeaways.
AbouttheAuthor
● StephenR.Covey(1932-2012)wasanAmerican educator,author,businessman,andrenowned speaker.
● Heauthoredseveralbest-sellingbooks,including “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” “The 8thHabit,”and“TheLeaderinMe.”
● Covey’snotablework,“TheSevenHabitsof HighlyEffectivePeople,”standsasoneofthe mostimportantbusinessbooksofthetwentieth century.
● Headvocatedforwhathereferredtoas“The CharacterEthic,”emphasizingthealignmentof one’svalueswithso-called“universaland
timeless”ideals.Additionally,heheldthedistinctionofbeing America’sfirstprominentnonfictionauthor
Inthisbook,Coveyinformsusaboutthe7habitsthatcan transformindividualsintohighlyeffectivepeople.
1. BeProactive
Theauthorstressestheimportanceoftakingresponsibilityinour lives,especiallyaswetransitionintoadulthood,whereothers perceiveusasindependentindividuals.Therefore,wehold completeresponsibilityfortheactionsandchoiceswemake.
Theauthorfurtheremphasizesthatwecannotshifttheblamefor ourbehaviorontoexternalfactorsorcircumstances.Ultimately, ourpersonallifedecisionsreflectourownchoices.
Hence,itiscrucialtotakeownershipofyourchoicesandstand firmlybythem,regardlessofthecircumstances.
Whethertheoutcomeispositiveornegative,youshouldfind reassurancewithinyourself.Avoidlettingexternalfactors influenceyourinternalstate;concentrateonhowyourespond.
Proactivepeopletakeownershipoftheirdecisionsandfocuson theactionstheycantaketoeffectchange,whilereactive individualstendtocomplainandadoptavictimmentality.Itis essentialtostaycommittedtoone’sgoals,andperhapsthemost vitalcommitmentanindividualcanmakeistotheirownselfimprovement.
2. BeginWiththeEndinMind
Tounderstandtheessenceofthishabit,Coveyurgesusto envisionafuneralscenario,promptingustocontemplatehowwe wouldwantourlovedonestorememberus.
Byundertakingthisthoughtexperiment;individualscanidentify theircorevalues,providingasturdyframeworkforguidingtheir actions.
Eachday,itiscrucialtoalignyourdailyactionswithyourlife’s overarchingvision,asthispracticecultivatescrucialvalues.By doingso,youequipyourselftoconfrontchallengesproactively andwithintegrity.
Toeffectivelyadoptthishabit,askyourselfthefollowing questions:1.Whatdoyouaspiretobecome?2.Whatactionsdo youintendtotake?3.Uponwhatprincipleshaveyoubuiltyour values?
Engaginginthisactivitywillhelpyoudevelopyour life’sprinciples,whichwillserveasyour guidebook.
Thisisanexceedinglycrucialundertaking,asthese principlesbecomethebedrockofyourlife,leading todailyflourishing.Regardlessoflife’schallenges, itisessentialtokeeptheseguidingprinciples steadfastandunwavering.
3. PutThingsFirst
Inthissection,theauthorpresentstwocrucial questionstocontemplate:
1. Whatistheonethingyouareneglecting thatcouldenhanceyourlife?
2. Whatistheonethingthathasthepotential toimproveyourbusiness?
Habit3canbesetinmotionbypracticingthefirst twohabits,asitcentersaroundself-management throughone’sstrongwill.
Havinganindependentwillmeansbeingthecaptain ofyourownship,whereyourintegrityguidesyour choices.Itiscrucialtoprioritizeimportantaspects oflifeandremaincommittedtoachievingthem.
However,adoptingadetrimentalhabitofsaying “No”tocertaintasksmightundermineallthe progressmadethroughprevioushabits.
Centeryouractionsaroundprinciplesand conscience,defineyourkeygoals,achievelife balance,andensureweeklyorganization.
Thesefocalpointsemphasizeenhancing relationshipsandresultsratherthanmerely maximizingyourtime.Byadoptingthisapproach, youwillbecomeahighlypracticalandeffective individual.
4. ThinkWin/Win
CoveyemphasizesthatWin-Winisnotmerelya techniquebutratheraphilosophythatindividuals shouldincorporateintotheirlives.
Thisapproachentailsseeking mutuallybeneficialagreementsor solutionsthatleaveeveryone satisfied,regardlessofthesituation. Thegoalistoensurethatallparties involvedfindtheoutcomefavorable.
Adoptingthishabitofcultivatinga Win-Winmindsetisvitalin fosteringhealthyinterdependence, astheauthorsuggestsittobethe mostfavorableemotionalstate.
EmbraceaWin-Winapproachto provebeneficialinadaptingto interpersonalrelationships.
Toachievethis,onemustexercise traitssuchasself-awareness, imagination,conscience,and independentwill.
TobecomeaWin-Winperson, embracefiveindependent dimensionsthatconstitutethishabit. ThesedimensionsincludeCharacter, Relationships,Agreements,WinWinPerformance,andprocessesfor cultivatingWin-Winsolutions.
5. SeekFirsttoUnderstand, ThenBeUnderstood
Theauthoremphasizesthe significanceofunderstandingothers beforeseekingtobeunderstood,as itgreatlyenhancesinterpersonal relationships.Cultivatingthishabit isoneofthemostvaluabletraitsone candevelop.
Whileweteachchildrentoread, write,andspeakfromayoungage, manyindividualsoftenoverlook listeningskills.
Coveyemphasizesthatindividuals withgoodinterpersonalskillsdonot manipulateothers.Instead,they conveytheirtruecharacter,andthis
authenticitynaturallydrawspeople towardsthem,leadingtoopenand engagingconversations.Wecallthis particularskillempatheticlistening.
Anempatheticlistenerhasthe abilitytoperceivetheworldfrom theotherperson’sperspectiveand genuinelyfeelwhattheotherperson isexperiencing.
Byunderstandingtheotherperson’s viewpoint,youcaneffectively communicateyourownthoughtsand bebetterunderstood.This heightenedlevelofunderstanding alsoenhancesthecredibilityofyour ideas.
6. Synergize
Synergyinvolvesacombinedaction whereapersonachievesmaximum synergyfromtheharmonious combinationofWin-Winhabitsand empatheticcommunication.
Embracingsynergyunleashesthe powerofprinciplesandisfounded ontheideathatthewholeisgreater thanthesumofitsparts.
Applyingsynergyinsocial interactionsisachallengeformany Coveyarguesthatsynergetic interpersonalinteractionsshouldbe apartofaperson’severydaylife.
Synergyrequiresvulnerability, openness,andcommunication.It balancesthemental,psychological, andemotionaldifferencesbetween people.
Synergyisallaboutcollaborating withotherstoaccomplishsomething thatwouldbeunattainableonyour own.
Itencompassesteamwork,teambuilding,andfosteringunitywith
otherhumanbeings.Synergy representsaninterdependentreality ofhumanlife.
7. SharpentheSaw
Tocontinuouslyenhanceyourwellbeingandperformance,focuson sharpeningthesawthrough regularlyandconsistentlyutilizing thefourdimensionsofmotivation: Physical,Emotional,Spiritual,and Mentalhealth.
Theauthoremphasizesthatyou driveyourlife’sperformance, makingitcrucialtoembracethis essentialability.
Balancingeachdimensioniscrucial becauseoverindulginginonearea leadstoneglectingtheothers. Sharpeningoneofthesedimensions willnaturallyfosterpositivityinthat particularaspectandtheother dimensionsaswell.
Asyouexperiencepersonalgrowth, yourself-awarenessalsoincreases. This,inturn,leadstoinevitable changesinyourpersonality
Asyouprogressandmoveforward, itbecomescrucialtocontinuously learn,dedicateyourselfmore,and consistentlyadherestoprinciplesto enhanceyourefficiencyand transformyourperspectivetowards others.
Inconclusion,personaldevelopment createsatransformativeperception ofoneselfintheeyesoftheworld. Actingwithmaturityearnsrespect andapproachabilityfromthose aroundyou.Thecoremessageofthe authoristoprioritizeself-respect andrespectforothers.Wetrustthat thisarticlehasgivenaconcise summaryof“The7HabitsofHighly EffectivePeople.”
President & CEO | Virginia Union University
Dr. Hakim J. Lucas Dr. Hakim J. Lucas
Scaling Leadership Metrics with Unique Empowering Models
Thecorephilosophyof educationistoimpart knowledgetostudentsand teachersworldwide.Numerous educationleadersareadheringtothis philosophytoaddfurthervalueto educationandhelpstudentsleverage educationtoitsfullestpotential. “I believe that education consists of teaching people how to learn, and as the student learns, the teacher, also, becomes a learner,” believes Dr.HakimJ.Lucas(Presidentand CEOatVirginiaUnionUniversity). Dr.Lucasassertsthatweareall learningtogetherandlearningasan organization,inwhichstudentsand synergisticleadersbegintoaspireand ascendtohigherlevels.Currently,he spearheadsatthehelmoftheVirginia UnionUniversityandpivotsitto greaterheights.
‘Best-In-Class’Educational Experience
TheVirginiaUnionUniversity(VUU) wasestablishedin1865.Sinceits establishment,theuniversitywas designedtooffernewlyemancipated freedmenanopportunityforeducation andadvancement.Itsfirstclasseswere arrangedbytheAmericanBaptist HomeMissionSociety(ABHMS).
Eventually,ABHMSfoundedfour institutionsthatwouldlatermergeto formthe“Union”thatgivesVirginia UnionUniversityitsname.Theyare: RichmondTheologicalSeminary, WaylandSeminary,Hartshorn MemorialCollege,andStorerCollege. In1899,thefirstclassesandthe Founders’Daytookplacewitha groundbreakingceremonyatthesiteof thepresent-dayVirginiaUnion UniversityinfrontofKingsleyHall. TheVirginiaUnionUniversity strategicallyworkstowardfourgoals: StudentSuccess,Academic Excellence,EntrepreneurialEnterprise
and,BrandPrestige.Theuniversityis guidedbyfivefundamentalprinciples inordertodeliveronthepromiseofa LimitlessFuture.TheyareInnovation, SpiritualFormation,Integrity, Diversity&Inclusionand,Excellence. Eachprincipleisessentialtoitsability toprovideaBest-In-Classeducational experienceforstudents,faculty,and staff.
AccreditedStudyPrograms
TheVirginiaUnionUniversityis accreditedbytheSouthernAssociation ofCollegesandSchools,Commission onCollegesandhasspecialized accreditationfromtheCommissionon AccreditingoftheAssociationof TheologicalSchools.Inadditionto that,dualcreditandstudyabroad programsareavailableattheuniversity alongwithadvancedplacement coursesfromhighschoolthatcanbe appliedascredit.
Currently,theVirginiaUnion Universityofferscomprehensive undergraduateandgraduate-level programsthroughsevenacademic schools.Theseinclude:
• TheSchoolofArts&Sciences
• TheEvelynReidSyphaxSchool ofEducation
• TheSydneyLewisSchoolof Business
• TheSchoolofLatinAmerican& CaribbeanStudies/ Universidad
• TheUniversityCollege,The Graduate,GlobalCampus& ProfessionalEducation,
• TheSamuelDeWittProctor SchoolofTheology
TheUniversityhasdistinguished alumniacrossthecountryinfieldssuch aseducation,business,socialactivism, politicsandgovernment,journalism, sportsandentertainment,ministry, sciences,andthemilitary
GrowthProfessionalMaturityin Leadership
BeingattheforefrontoftheVirginia UnionUniversity,Dr.Lucasensures maximizingthequalityofthe academicprogramsandtheefficiency ofthevariousadministrative componentsoftheuniversity Through theseroles,heseekstoestablisha transcendentorganization. “I believe that at some point in time, within a transcendent organization, one’s selfawareness and leadership, leadership personality, and leadership traits must grow, and that professional maturity should be aligned with the direction of the organization,” heremarks.
Dr.Lucasconsidersthisastheprocess ofgrowthorprofessionalmaturity whichisachievedwhenself-awareness andleadershipawarenessbeginto growtogether.Inadditiontothis,heis responsibleforcreatingthevalueand themeaningofVirginiaUnion Universityasanorganizationthrough hisroleastheleader.Healsoprovides thedirectionthatisneededtoshapethe futureoftheorganization.
NOTE TO THE STUDENTS
“Being a leader is the act of receiving guidance on how to maximize the use of your skills, tools, and competencies to perform at your optimum level within the context of a team.”
PrioritizingStudentEngagementin allSpheres
Besidesfocusingonestablishing academicvaluesatthecampus,the VirginiaUnionUniversitypreparesits studentstobesociallyresponsibleand ethicallyaswellasethnically conscious.Theuniversityachievesthis bymandatingcommunityservice projects,communitymentorship opportunitieswithK-12students,and studentleadershippositionswiththe studentgovernmentassociationand orientationleadersfornewstudents. Studentsarealsoassignedtoworkon campusinacapacitythatsuitstheir futurecareeraspirationsfollowedby aninternship.Theseexperiencesallow studentstoservethecommunityand developtheirsenseofleadershipinthe communityandonaprofessionallevel.
Alongwithfosteringmaximumstudent engagementinextracurricular activities,theuniversityalsooffersa plethoraofcareerdevelopment opportunitiesforthestudents.Students arerequiredtoparticipateinits workforcedevelopmentprogram wheretheygainexperienceintheir
careerofinterestbothoncampusand thenexternallywithacompanyinan internshipcapacity.Moreover,the VirginiaUnionUniversityhas partneredwithcorporationsand executivestoprovidementorship, careertalks,andevenserveasadjunct professorsforcourses.
UnderstandingTranscendent Leadership
“I believe that the growth in understanding people is not just about the metrics. It’s not just about the goals; but it’s about how people show up, people’s disposition, mental states, mindsets, people’s heart set and their passions,”assertsDr.Lucas.He believesthattheidealqualitiesofan educationleaderaretoprovide guidanceandmaximizeperformance sinceitisnecessaryforthecontextofa team.
Transcendentorsynergisticleadersare activelylearningastheytrainteam members.Leadershipistheactof receivingguidanceonhowto maximizetheuseofone’sskills,tools, andcompetenciestoperformatan
optimumlevelwithinthecontextofa team.Asaleadershipcoach,Dr.Lucas ensuresprovidingdirectguidanceto thevice-presidentsandthosewho reportdirectly,tohim,onadailyand weeklybasis.
‘ServantLeadershipEmpowering Model’
Asavisionaryleaderatthecoreofthe VirginiaUnionUniversity,Dr.Lucas ensuresempoweringhispeersaswell asthestudents.Explaininghis’servant leadershipempowering’modelfurther, Dr.Lucascitestheexampleofhowin churches,thepastorisviewedasa shepherdandthemembersare consideredtobeaflock.Thisservant leadershipapproachisoneofthe constructsofhisshepherdingstrategy andDr.Lucashasalwaysthoughtof thisviewasthewaythroughwhichthe shepherdispositionedwithintheflock. Hefurtherenunciateshowagood shepherdcannotbeinfrontoftheflock butmustpositionhimorherselfbehind theflockandfollowit.Thisisbecause theprimaryjoboftheshepherdisto keeptheflockaliveandmoveforward.
Thetranscendentleaders,asa shepherd,guidetheirflockfrom behind,andleadingfrombehindisthe leadershipstyleofthefutureandthe notionofempoweringteammembers frombehind.Thetranscendentleaders arereadytoassumetheirroleasa shepherdandcanassumetheircenters inthepositionofanothermemberof theorganization.However,theyare solidleadersandcandeliberately assumethispostureinorderto empowerwhileallowingtheteam memberstocreatemeaningandcarry onthemomentumoftheorganization. Therefore,Dr.Lucasconcludesitisa richandversatileapproachto leadership.
JAMES GAUDINO JAMES GAUDINO
A Seasoned Educator Preparing Students for Enlightened, Responsible, and Productive Lives
The entire education system has undergone numerous transformations over the years. In recent years, we have come to learn that teaching and learning are distinct but inseparable components of education. The modern educator must use inquiry, experiential learning, and technology to create an environment that engages students in a learning process.Wehavealsogainedabetterunderstandingof individualized learning and lexibility in teaching
methods according to the students' backgrounds and learningstyles.
Talkingaboutthechangingeducationlandscapearound the world, James Gaudino (President of Central Washington University) states, “We are rediscovering old lessons while also adapting them to an environment of ubiquitous connectivity, smartphones, and social media. The pandemic has further accelerated our adaption to
and adoption of these technologies.” Gaudino is a seasoned educator with extensive experience. He has been an integral part of CWU's success as one of the preeminentuniversitiesintheregion.
An Illustrious Career
Gaudino is a graduate of the United States Air Force AcademyandservedintheU.S.AirForceinCalifornia, Turkey, and Germany He pursued a Ph.D in Communication from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Management from Troy State University His prominent interests include public relationsandpublicopinionformation.
Inhiseminentcareer,Gaudinohasworkedwithseveral renowned educational institutions. He was the Executive Director of the National Communication Association. He also served on the faculty of Michigan
State University's Department of Advertising before joiningKentStateUniversityAtKentStateUniversity,he foundedtheCollegeofCommunicationandInformation andguideditsdevelopmentintoacenterofinnovation in the study of the new information age. Gaudino was appointedthePresidentofCWUin2009andhastaken theuniversitytonewheightsduringhistenure.
A Leader in Teacher Education
Central Washington University (CWU) was founded in 1891 as the Washington State Normal School. It was knownastheCentralWashingtonCollegeofEducation from1937-1961,thenCentralWashingtonStateCollege from1961-1977.IthasbeenCWUsince1977.Initially established as a teachers’ training institution, CWU’s mission has expanded over the years as it has transformed into a comprehensive four-year public university.Central'sroleasaleaderinteachereducation has remained consistent as the university is now recognized for providing one of the largest and most prestigiousteachereducationprogramsinthewest.
The Facilities Plan
When Gaudino irst arrived at CWU 12 years ago, he committedtoafacilitiesplanthatwouldgivestudents the best learning environment. “We ensured that by building new instructional facilities and renovating existing ones. Our students now have the opportunities to discover new stars in a research quality planetarium and study sound in an anechoic chamber,”addsGaudino.
Thestudentscanconductstudysecuritystructuresina cyberwarfarelabandinvestigate3Dsystemsinvirtual reality labs. A new health sciences building—which opens in January 2022—will boast state-of-the-art 3D anatomytablesandvirtualrealitytools.
Competitive Environment
“I believe that competition is more than a desire to win. It is a drive to improve, and the act of competing is simply a measure of that effort,” asserts Gaudino. According to him, education is all about seeking improvement. Offeringstudentsanopportunitytocompetemotivates them to improve and allows them to evaluate their progress.
James Gaudino
President | Central Washington University
CWU encourages students to test themselves by entering regional, national, and international competitions in diverse ields such as music performance, math modeling, construction management, and business planning. During his 12 yearsasPresident,Gaudinohasseenmanyteamsreturn withhonors,onlytoaskforanopportunitytoimprove theirperformanceinthecomingcompetitionyear.“That spiritofcontinuousimprovementiswhyourrecentreaccreditation report described CWU as an excellent universitythatisonthecuspofgreatness.Wenowstrive forthatgoal,”Gaudinocontinues.
Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity
CWUtakesprideinprovidingopportunitiestotalented studentsfromavarietyofbackgroundsandabilitiesto pay Diversity,equity,andinclusivityhavebeenthetop prioritiesduringGaudino'stenure.About40percentof CWU'sstudentsaretraditionallyunderservedstudents or students of color, thus the university ensures to providethemawelcomingandacceptingenvironment
As majority of its students are irst-generation college students, CWU has programs that provide ongoing
assistancetothem,suchasitsFirst-YearExperience, SophomoreYearExperience,andotherenrichment initiatives. The Of ice of International Studies and Programs (OISP) also offers a wide variety of programs and support services for international students, education abroad participants, exchange scholars,andacademicdepartments.
Career and Academic Services
The university is committed to providing its students with the career and academic services including peer tutoring, career counseling, and study skill workshops, that they need to succeed. “Our academic majors help students with educational policies, transfer credits, apply to a major, and other essential information about degree programs,” adds Gaudino. The career services assist students with exploring options for internships, job searches, careerchoices,andnetworkingopportunities.
CWU'sDepartmentofCareerServicesofferscareer counseling and professional development opportunities to all current and transfer students, alumni, faculty, and staff. The career services sponsorcareer,internship,andgraduateschoolfairs throughout the year and career counselors, workshops, and a professional clothing closet—offering free interview-appropriate clothing to students in need of professional attire. The Career Services staff at CWU also assists students in job searching techniques, resume and coverletterwriting,andinterviewing.
Why CWU?
The number of educational institutions emerging hasbeenincreasinginrecentyears.Studentstoday have numerous options while choosing the educational institute. Thus, choosing a college/universityisvitalforstudents.Accordingto Gaudino, there are several prominent reasons a student should choose CWU. The university has a welcoming environment for the students, faculty, and staff. “We have a saying at Central—you belong—and it is how we want our student, faculty, staff, and parents to feel about the university,” says Gaudino.
Note To The Students
“Central's commitment to hands-on learning and discovery and individual attention takes you beyond the limits of the classroom and books.”
Furthermore,CWUisknownforembracingdiversity As oneofthemostdiverseandinclusiveuniversitiesinthe state, it has been awarded the prestigious Higher EducationExcellenceinDiversityawardinsixofthepast sevenyears.Alongsidediversity,affordabilityisoneof the most important factors students consider before choosing a university CWU has been consistently rankedasoneofthemostaffordablepublicuniversities inWashingtonState.
Theyear2020broughtnumerouschangestotheways CWUoperated.Itsexpectationsfrom2021andbeyond include returning to in-person instruction and inpersonuniversityoperationsinthefall.“Of course, being able to do that will depend on the recommendations of our local and state health professionals,” concludes Gaudino.
INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY
IN THE WORKPLACE
Key Strategies for Success!
Canyouimagineaworkenvironmentwhere
companiesexpecttheiremployeesto performtheirbestdespitefacinggender, ethnicity,language,orpersonalchallenges?Itis improbable.Inclusionanddiversityarecrucialinthe workplace,whichiswhytheyplayavitalrole. Althoughawarenessofthisconcepthasexistedfor sometime,itwasn’tuntilthelate1960sthat organizationsbeganactivelyimplementingit.Since then,theoutcomeshaveconsistentlyshown improvement.Ifyouarecuriousaboutthisconcept’s origins,evolution,andcurrentstatus,weinviteyou tositbackandrelaxasweexploretheseaspectsin thisblog.
WhatdoesInclusionandDiversitysignify,and whenandhowdiditbegin?
Inclusionanddiversityintheworkplaceencompass assemblingdiverseindividualswhocollaborate
harmoniouslytowardsasharedobjectivewithout subjectinganyonetodiscriminatorytreatmentthat mayunderminetheirsenseofsecurityandhinder theirproductivitywithinthedesignatedwork environment.Theideawasimplementedinthelate 1960sorearly1970s,althoughpeoplehaddiscussed itbefore.Thevisionarywhopioneeredtheutilization ofthisapproachwasconsiderablyaheadoftheirtime.
Subsequently,officialinitiativeswereundertakenby notableorganizationssuchastheEqualEmployment OpportunityCommission(EEOC)andtheNational OrganizationforWomen(NOW)duringtheeraofthe CivilRightsMovement.
Thoughthepreciseoriginsofthisconceptremain undocumented,thereareindicationsfromhistorical recordsthatitwasgraduallyintroducedwithin organizationalsettings,eachwithitsdistinct approach.
GeneralElectric(GE)-1960-establisheda diversitytaskforcetoaddressworkforcediversity deficiencies.
● IBM-1970-Launched“PeopleofColorin Management”diversityprogram
● Procter&Gamble(P&G)-1980-Initiated“Women inLeadership”diversityprogram.
● AT&T-1990-Introduced“DiversityandInclusion forthe21stCentury”diversityprogram.
Whyisitimportant?
Prioritizinginclusionanddiversityintheworkplacecanyield positiveresultsfororganizations.Astudyconductedby McKinsey&Companyhasrevealedcompellingfindingsthat demonstratethevalueofsuchpractices.Thereportindicates thatthecompaniesinthetopquartilehavea35%higher probabilityofachievingfinancialreturnsthantheirrespective nationalindustrymedians.Moreover,organizationsstrongly committedtoinclusionanddiversityhavereported significantbenefits.
● Approximately70%oftheseorganizationsclaimto attractandretaintop-tiertalentmoreeffectively thantheircounterparts.
● 65%assertthattheyoutperformtheircompetitorsin termsofinnovation.
● 60%oftheorganizationsstatethattheiremployees exhibithigherengagementlevelsthanotherentities.
Furthermore,thereportestablishesacorrelationbetweena firm’sfocusoninclusionanddiversityanditsprofitability. Notably,organizationsrankedinthetopquartileforinclusion anddiversitydisplaya25%greaterlikelihoodofattaining profitabilitythanthoseinthebottomquartile.Thesefindings underlinethecompellingbusinesscaseforprioritizing inclusionanddiversitywithinorganizations.
HowcanyouputInclusionandDiversityinthe WorkplaceintoAction?
Well,therearemanywayshowyoucanimplementthis strategytogrowyourbusiness.Herearesometricksand techniquestoskyrocketyourcurrentresultsintosomething massive.
1. AssessingYourExecutiveTeam
Thecompositionofyourexecutiveteamservesasa significantindicatorofyourentireworkforce,reflectingthe valuesandprinciplesofyourorganization.Itis,therefore, crucialtocultivateadiversetopmanagementteam encompassinggender,ethnicity,sexualorientation,and more.Arebothmenandwomenadequatelyrepresented? Areindividualsfromvariousculturalandreligious backgroundsgivenopportunities?
ThefollowinginfographicshowsthepopulationofFortune 500CEO’s.
Race: Black: 3 White: 497 Other: 1
Source:BostonConsultingGroup
Whileexertingdirectcontroloverthecompositionofyour executiveteammaybelimited,itisimperativethatyou advocatefordiversityandinclusionintheC-suite,should theopportunityarise.Additionally,youcanfosterauthentic andtransparentcommunicationbetweenyourexecutives andemployees,attractingdiversetalentstoyour organization.
2.RecognizingandRespectingDiverseReligiousand CulturalPractices
Establishinganall-encompassingorganizationalculture holdsimmensesignificanceinensuringthesuccessof diversityendeavorsandyieldingsubstantialemployee engagementandproductivitybenefits.Aviableapproachto fosteringinclusivityinvolvesaccordingtoduerecognition andrespectfordiverseholidaysandcelebrations.Forbes recommendsthatorganizationsuseaseparaterefrigeratorto storeKosherfooditems.
Moreover,whilecertaincompaniestraditionallyobserve ChristmasDayasadesignatedholiday,agrowingnumber nowofferflexiblefloatingholidaystoaccommodatethe religiouspreferencesoftheirentireworkforce.Cultivating anenvironmentwhereemployeesperceivetheir organization’scommitmenttodiversityandinclusioncan leadtoenhancedemployeeretention,therebyoffering tangibleadvantagestothecompany
3. InitiatingaDiscussiononGenderPayDisparity
Genderpaydisparityremainsacontroversialissuein numerousorganizations.Establishingtrustandfostering inclusivitywithintheworkforcedependonacompany’s transparencyregardingitspoliciesandeffective communicationaboutthem.Incaseswheregenderpay imbalancesexist,itisessentialtocreateopenchannelsof communicationthatenableemployeestoexpresstheir thoughtsandopinions.
Furthermore,itiscrucialtoarticulatethecompany’scurrent orfuturestrategiesforrectifyingthegap,ensuring employeesfeelreassuredbytheorganization’scommitment toaddressinggenderpayinequalityactively
● Whenpresentingdatarelatedtosuchpolicies,itis imperativetorefrainfromadoptingadefensive stance.
● Whenthedataappearsbiasedduetovariousfactors likedisparitiesbetweenmaternityanduntaken paternityleave,itisvitaltoprovideastraightforward andclearexplanationtoemployees.
4. PromotingInclusiveThinkingforEnhanced Diversity
Byactivelypursuingdiversehiringpractices,yourcompany canfosteraculturethatembracesdiversethinkingandbenefits fromculturallyvariedperspectives.However,achievinglasting impactrequiresmorethanjustassemblingadiverseworkforce; itnecessitatesacomprehensiveapproachtoinclusivity
Itisimportanttoacknowledgethatpeoplefromdifferent backgroundsandagegroupsmayhavedifferingperspectives onworkplaceissuessuchasdresscode,emailetiquette, evaluations,andparticipationinmeetings.Thus,understanding thinkingpatternsisimportantatanindividuallevelandcrucial forteams,departments,andtheentireorganizationto comprehendhowothersfeel.
Byembracingdiversethinking,yourcompanycanharnessa multitudeofideasandreceivevaluablefeedback,allwhile cultivatinganenvironmentwhereeveryonefeelsvaluedand connectedtoasharedmission.
5. EstablishingaMultigenerationalWorkforce: EmbracingDiversityandInclusion
Inthecurrentemploymentlandscape,themillennialgeneration constitutesthepredominantportionoftheworkforce.Creating aninclusiveenvironmentthatvaluesdiversityrequiresbuilding ateamthatwelcomesindividualsfromdifferentagegroups. It’simportanttonotethatpeoplebornfrom1981onward,often viewedastech-savvy,belongtothemillennialgeneration. Consequently,oldermillennialsmaypossessadifferentlevel ofproficiencywithtechnologytoolsthantheiryounger counterparts.
Thisdiscrepancybecomesapparentincommunication practiceswithinorganizations.Someemployeesaremore inclinedtowardsutilizingsocialmediaplatformsorgroupchat functionalities,whileindividualsfromoldergenerationsmay exhibitamorereservedattitudetowardsembracingsuch communicationchannels.
Communicationprofessionalsshouldconsiderinvestingina comprehensiveworkforcecommunicationsplatformtoaddress thisissue.Suchaplatformwouldfacilitatethe
seamlesscreationanddisseminationofmessagesthrough channelspreferredbyemployees.Byadoptingthis approach,communicatorscaneffectivelytailortheir messagestoresonatewithindividualsfromallgenerations andencourageactiveengagement.
Deloitte’sresearchrevealsthatover80%ofmillennials experienceaheightenedsenseofengagementwiththeir workwhentheiremployersfosteragenuinelydiverse workplaceculture.
Howisitgoing,andwhataretheoutcomes?
BasedonasurveyconductedbyDeloitte,asignificant majorityofemployees,amountingto82%,recognizethe significanceofdiversityandinclusionincontributingto theirorganization’soverallsuccess.
Furthermore,theWorldEconomicForumconductedastudy revealingthatcompanieswithdiverseleadershipteamsare moreinclinedtofosterinnovationandyieldgreater profitability.However,thecurrentstateofaffairsinthe UnitedStatesindicatesasubstantialgapbetweenthe workforcecompositionandexecutive-levelpositionsheld bycertaindemographicgroups.
● Women comprise 47% of the workforce but only 24% of executive-level positions.
● Black employees comprise 13% of the workforce but only 6% of executive-level positions.
● Hispanic employees comprise 17% of the workforce but only 4% of executive-level positions.
Source: Boston Consulting Group
BenefitsofDiversity:
● Companieswithdiversemanagementteamshavea 35%higherlikelihoodofachievingfinancial performancethatsurpassestheindustryaverage.
● Diverseteamsaremoreinnovativeandcreative.
● Diverseteamsarebetteratunderstandingand servingcustomersfromdifferentbackgrounds.
Inconclusion,promotinginclusionanddiversityinthe workplaceiscrucialforethicalreasonsandstrategic advantages.Embracingdiverseperspectivesandexperiences
fostersinnovation,employeeengagement,andstronger relationshipswithcustomersandcommunities.By prioritizinginclusivepractices,organizationscreate environmentswhereindividualscanflourishandmake maximumcontributionsdrivingsustainablebusinesssuccess.
FAQ’s
1. Whatisinclusionanddiversityintheworkplace?
Diversityencompassestherangeofdifferencespresent amongindividuals,suchastheirrace,ethnicity,gender, sexualorientation,age,disability,religion,andotherpersonal characteristics.Inclusionreferstothepracticeofcreatinga workplaceenvironmentwhereeveryonefeelswelcomed, respected,andvalued,regardlessoftheirdifferences.
2. HowcanIbeanadvocatefordiversityandinclusion intheworkplace?
Therearemanywaysthatyoucanbeanadvocatefor inclusionanddiversityintheworkplace.Someofthese include:
● Talktoyourcolleaguesabouttheimportanceof diversityandinclusion.
● Speakupwhenyouseeorhearsomething discriminatoryoroffensive.
● Getinvolvedinyourorganization’sdiversityand inclusioninitiatives.
● Supportfororganizationsthatpromotediversityand inclusion
3. Whataresomeresourcesforlearningmoreabout diversityandinclusion?
Thereareanumberofresourcesavailabletohelpyoulearn moreaboutdiversityandinclusion.Someoftheseinclude:
● TheSocietyforHumanResourceManagement (SHRM).SHRMoffersavarietyofresourceson diversityandinclusion,includingarticles,webinars, andtrainingprograms.
● TheDiversityandInclusionCouncil.TheDiversity andInclusionCouncilisanon-profitorganization thatprovidesresourcesandtrainingondiversityand inclusion.
● TheNationalDiversityCouncilisanon-profit organizationthatsupportsdiversityandinclusionin theworkplace.
President | Long Island University
Assiduous Leader Magnifying Students' Educational Experiences
Kimberly Cline
Overthepastfewyears,global educationhasseenimmense changesincludingpositive advancementsandinnovativeideas. Technologicaltouchandeasyinternet accesshaveopenedboundless opportunitiesinfrontofstudents worldwide.Giventhenumberof optionsavailabletoday,itisa challengeforstudentstochoosean appropriateinstitutionthatbecomesa goodfitaccordingtotheireducational requirementsandfinancialsituations.
LongIslandUniversityisoneofthe institutionsthatisdistinguishingitself fromthecompetitionwithits comprehensiveeducationandhas becomeauniquechoiceforstudents. TheuniversityisledbyDr.Kimberly R.Cline(President).Sheisan experiencedandbrilliantleader contributingtothesuccessofstudents andimpartingimpactfuleducation.
DirectingaCentury-oldInstitution
Dr.KimberlyR.Clineisan enthusiasticpersonalityandan esteemedindividualintheeducation sector.AlongwithaBachelorof ScienceinIndustrialRelations,she alsoholdsamaster’sdegreein BusinessAdministrationaswellas JurisDoctorandDoctorofEducational Administrationdegrees.Shehasbeen servingasthe10thPresidentofLong IslandUniversity(LIU)sinceJuly 2013.Beingatthehelmofoneofthe largestandmostcomprehensive privateuniversitiesinthecountry,Dr. Clinehasledthiscentury-old institutionthroughatransformational process.Thishasprovidedstudents withexceptionaleducational opportunitiesthatemphasize experientiallearningandexcellencein teachingandresearch.
Duringhertenure,Dr.Clinehas alwaysbeenactiveinlaunchingnew
schools,centers,andcareer-ready programsattheuniversity.The purposebehindthisistoincrease retentionandgraduation,attracthighachievingstudents,andimprove philanthropy.Italsoexposesstudents tohigh-demandacademicprograms withinnovativeleadership.
TheUniversityoftheFuture
LongIslandUniversity(LIU)was establishedin1926inBrooklyn,New Yorkwiththemissionofeducating studentstobeglobalcitizens. Consideringtheshiftingofmore familiesinurbanandsuburbanareasof NewYork,theUniversityexpandedits horizonsbyacquiringa330-acreestate onLongIsland’sGoldCoastin1951. Theuniversityholdsagoalofbuilding The university of the future withhighspiritedcampuslifeandengaged learning.Keepingliberalartsand sciencesatthecore,itensuresquality educationofstudentswithfoundational knowledge.Itnotonlywelcomesa diversestudentbodybutalsofostersan inclusivecampuscommunity
ProfusionofDistinctOpportunities
LIUprovidesawiderangeofacademic
programsandeducational opportunitiestostudentsaroundthe globe.Theuniversityallowsaccessto complementarytutoringservices, careercounseling,andvarious workshopsthroughitsLIUPromise initiative.Inthisprogram,Success Coachesguidestudentsthroughout theireducationaljourneyatthe university.Studentscannotonlyhave discussionswiththeircareercoaches foradvicebutalsoengagethemselves inbuildingnetworksandfinding mentors.Moreover,theyhaveaccessto premierNCAADivisionIathletics programs,student-runclubs,and businesses.Theexcellentfaculty membershelptheminacquiring internshipsandexceptionalcareers.
NationalExposure
UnderDr.Cline’sguidance,LIUhas garneredinternationalexposureand recognizedexcellence.TheCollegeof VeterinaryMedicinejoinsCornell University,TuftsUniversity,andthe UniversityofPennsylvaniaasoneof fourveterinarycollegesinthe northeast.TheRocNationSchoolof Music,Sports,andEntertainment resultedfromapartnershipwithLIU andJayZ,offeringtalentedstudents
“We are proud to be an institution providing rich and excellent educational experiences to students through our innovative curriculum.”
prestigiousinternshipsandaccessto topleadersinthesportsand entertainmentindustry TheRoosevelt School,joiningwiththeSocietyof PresidentialDescendantslaunched NationalCivicsDayandprovides studentsaccesstoworldleaders–PresidentBiden,formerPresident Bush,formerPresidentClinton,and topdiplomatsfromaroundtheworld. Dr.Clinehasalsomaintained importantrelationshipsand partnershipsleveragingindustry leadersandiconsaswellasprofessors andguestlecturers.Additionally,she hasexpandedLIU’sDivisionIathletic programto37sports,with championshipteams.
Dr.Clinehasworkedpersistentlywith thegoaltomagnifystudents’ experiences.Shehashelpedmany studentsbyincreasing Hope Scholarships forthosewhoneed significantfinancialassistance.Shehas putintremendouseffortstopartner withtheBarclay’sCenter,hometothe BrooklynNets,andisworkingwith LiveNationtorestorethelegendary BrooklynParamountTheatreasatop entertainmentvenue.Shehasalso supportedthefoundationoftheSchool ofFilmandDigitalMediathat cherishesstudents’talentsandisledby anadvisoryboardfeaturingformer ParamountPicturesExecutiveMichael Tadross,award-winningactorandTV hostWhoopiGoldberg,andiconic BroadwayproducerWendyFederman.
TechnologicalAdvancements
Enunciatingherthoughtson technologyadvancementsand achievementsatLongIsland University’scampuses,Dr.Clinesays thattheuniversityisaleaderin technologicalinnovationsinthe country.ItnotonlydevelopedaDigital HealthInstitutebutalsopartneredwith FortuneFuture50CompanyDassault
Systemsandwasnamedtheonly CenterforExcellenceinLifeSciences aroundtheglobe.Thepurposebehind thispartnershipistotrainhealthcare studentsinartificialintelligenceand virtualrealityapplicationsinthe medicalsector
Theuniversityhasintroducedan Apple-authorizedcampusstorecalled Browsethatservesasanall-purpose techcenter.Thelaunchofdigital campusIDsfurtherintroducedanew leveloftechnologyandexpandedthe university’spartnershipwithApple. Theuniversityhasbuiltstate-of-the-art labsandrecruitedelitefacultywho earnimportantgrantsforresearchand development.Asaresult,LIUis rankedamongthetop7%ofresearch institutionsinthecountrywithhigh researchactivitybytheCarnegie ClassificationofInstitutionsofHigher Education.
RecognizedandInfluentialPersona
Dr.ClinehasbeenfeaturedintheLong IslandPressPowerListofthe50most influentialpeopleonLongIslandand theinauguralLongIslandPower50by CityandState.Shehasalsobeen honoredasoneofBrooklyn’sWomen
ofDistinction.Moreover,shehas servedasapastchairoftheBoardof TrusteesoftheCouncilofIndependent CollegesandUniversitiesaswellas chairedasamemberoftheboardof theCenterforCreativeLeadership. Currently,sheservesasaboard memberoftheLongIsland Association.
LIUStrategicPlan:Embarkinga Wayto2030
Withthevisiontobecomeanationally recognized,globallyengagedteaching andresearchuniversity,LIUhas plannedfutureacademicprogramsthat willprovidestudentswithaplethoraof careeropportunitiesandbuilda generationofstrong,well-educated leaders.Theuniversityhasintroduced itsstrategicplanthrough2030that includescompetitiveandrelevant programscateringtotheworkforce requirements.Forasustainablefuture, ithasplannedtolaunchprogramsthat willsupportgloballeadershipby establishingacultureofcreativityand knowledgedevelopment.Withgroundbreakingacademicsandinnovative programs,LIUstrivestoprovide excellenteducationtostudents.
