GAMECOCK
The CONnection News and Views from the University of South Carolina COLLEGE OF NURSING
MAY 2016
Teaming Before sitting down to write this message, I spent some time reflecting on our annual faculty-staff retreat (on Monday) as well as our achievements for the past year. What resonated with me was that the College of Nursing has one of the best teams that I have had the pleasure working with in a very long time. Throughout the year, testimonies by faculty and staff have highlighted our “great team,” inclusivity, and camaraderie. Likewise, individuals and groups outside of our College have been noticing our solid team, healthy climate, and enhanced productivity for some time.
Ashley Sirianni, Dean Andrews and Michael Pallon at Convocation.
Inside This Issue Alumni & Development...2-3 Students Corner...............4-7 Faculty & Staff Notes......8-10 NO LIMITS.........................11
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How did we do this? We have been intentional and focused, we have prioritized our goals and values, we work at “teamwork,” and we have likely transitioned to “teaming.” As our teams have coalesced around a shared vision, our results have yielded higher levels of quality products and outcomes. According to Harvard Professor Amy Edmundson, “teaming” (e.g., a verb) is essential to an organization’s ability to innovate, drive quality, and meet shared goals. The College of Nursing intersects with two dynamic environments: healthcare and higher education. Both environments demand even greater levels of collaboration and communication than ever before. “Teaming” requires traditional teambuilding skills such as trust, coordination, and collaboration. Yet as a verb, teaming represents a dynamic activity and is largely determined by the mindset and practices of teamwork. Fast moving and complex work environments need people who know how to team, people who have the skills and the flexibility to collaborate, and are able to move quickly and proficiently with multiple projects to meet the common goals and mission of the organization. At our annual retreat, we wrapped up our day brainstorming bold ideas for the future. As we gained consensus around some common themes, one of our colleagues called out, “Let’s just do it.” We knew just what that meant. By teaming, coalescing, and focusing, I am convinced that our College of Nursing team can accomplish any goals for which we strive. Our best days are still ahead.
Jeannette O. Andrews PhD, RN, FAAN Dean & Professor j.andrews@sc.edu
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