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One of the most beneficial things people say they get out of the program is the networking ... your workspace and email organized ; and career planning , which includes setting goals , having conversations with your manager , and recognizing factors that can set you off course . Professional facilitators are brought in to lead courses and discussions .
STILL GROWING
More than 475 SDCCD employees have participated in leadership academies since 2009 .
Such sentiments are common , says Erin Milligan Hill , the college district ’ s Director of Employment and Professional Development , who oversees the academies . “ One of the most beneficial things people say they get out of the program is the networking ,” she said . “ They learn what other people are doing . They attain a new respect and awareness about the challenges and opportunities their colleagues face , and it puts
them on a level of energy and enthusiasm where they want to learn and contribute even more .”
The academy for classified employees includes five halfday modules and two catered , brown-bag lunch discussions about the four self-guided study assignments . The Classified Academy is open to classified employees and others with an interest in gaining a foundational knowledge about the district , serving a lead role on a committee or project assignment , or who aspire to serve as a supervisor . Modules cover the following topics : leadership perspective , which includes personal awareness , key leadership characteristics , and understanding personal leadership style , in addition to an overview of the shared governance protocol in the district ; cultural sensitivity and diversity , which covers working effectively across differences , the impact of structural and implicit biases , and understanding the essence of diversity , inclusion , and equity ; self-management , which includes skills for effective communication under stress , and conflict management ; time management , which includes tools to set priorities and get things done , and strategies for keeping
The most recent addition to the Professional Development Program is the Faculty Leadership Development Academy , which was launched in the spring of 2016 . The focus : to assist faculty in developing the understanding and insight about the skills , knowledge , and abilities necessary to serve in leadership roles such as committee or department chairs , deans , or vice presidents .
Future goals call for a Leadership Academy Alumni Event with keynote speakers and enhanced networking opportunities , in addition to an Advanced Leadership Development Academy with guest speakers from other college districts and regional organizations . Also on the drawing board is an Action Reflection Learning Team program , which will include graduates from the Leadership Academies and mentors who will team up to actively engage in research and projects of interest to the Chancellor ’ s Cabinet .
The intention is that every participant in any part of the Professional Development Program , and what they gain for themselves as well as bring back to the workplace and their colleagues , may be considered a positive long-term return on investment from the program .
Stephanie Bulger is Vice Chancellor , Instructional Services , of the San Diego Community College District in California . To view the full version of this article , visit www . league . org / node / 17566 .
24 The League for Innovation in the Community College Innovatus