IGNITE Leadership Academy LeadingAge New York 2014-15 2014-15 | Page 25

Diana Pillittieri

A Personalized Experience
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How has the action learning process in the context of the Leadership Academy experience
contributed to your growth as a leader?

Being part of the IGNITE program has giving me the opportunity to travel to different sites and see how other facilities operate. I
have worked in the Lutheran system for many years and it is easy to take daily experiences for granted. The selected readings were
inspiring and allowed me to focus on self reflection, which is really difficult. The readings helped me to realize that I work at a really
good place. Good things are happening around me everyday and appreciating that I can make a difference feels good.
Meeting other healthcare professional from New York State is so beneficial. Realizing that they face some of the same problems
and brainstorming together and thinking about solutions has been rewarding. I have learned from the facilitators, coaches and other
fellows. Living by example is important in leadership. It is about keeping communication open, being honest and being respectful
to everyone in the facility. People respond to eye contact and positive feedback. Creating meaningful conversations with staff,
residents and family members is beneficial to growth. Listening to the needs of those we serve will improve our culture. This has
truly been an excellent opportunity.

A special thank you to LeadingAge New York members for hosting the
IGNITE Leadership Academy during 2014-15:
Weinberg Campus, Getzville
The Summit at Brighton, Rochester
Standish Community Center at the Eddy Village Green, Cohoes
Wartburg, Mt. Vernon

IGNITE Leadership Academy Action Learning Project 2014-15

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