After four months of an empowering journey of self-awareness and leadership growth, the graduates of Essentials of Leadership (EOL) Series 17 gathered at the Newman Alumni Center to celebrate their achievement.
Hosted by the Human Resources’ Talent and Organizational Development team, EOL is a transformational program designed to provide participants with experiential learning, leadership coaching, and networking opportunities. Congratulations to the 66 faculty and staff leaders from across all campuses who completed this program. The graduates now join over 1,000 leaders who are EOL alumni.
From personal revelations to profound leadership transformations, the inspiring stories shared by these graduates will leave you eager to embrace your own leadership journey. A few graduates took center stage to share how their EOL experience had redefined their approach to leadership, as they grow and empower others, to make a lasting impact. Here are some highlights from their captivating reflections.
Leading with purpose and open communication
Eugene Labrador, director, UMHC Lennar Foundation Medical Center Non-invasive Cardiology Lab and Satellites
Eugene's sense of purpose resonates with providing service to the community, particularly in the medical field. As a director of cardiology, he takes pride in leading his department to deliver exceptional care. Through EOL, Eugene discovered the significance of self-awareness, becoming a better listener, and utilizing coaching skills. He emphasized the importance of setting goals while allowing his team to find their own path. Eugene's favorite new tool acquired from EOL is “coaching on the go.” He acknowledged the need for proactive communication with his team and maintaining open channels of communication.
Transformational leadership and embracing feedback
Konstantia Kontaxis, professor, department chair of Cinematic Arts
For Konstantia, the power to transform lives and educate students is what drives her as a leader. EOL has enhanced her journey of self-awareness. The program has helped her be more intentional about listening and allowing her team to generate their own ideas. Konstantia's goal is to transition from being an operational leader to a strategic leader by dedicating time to introspection, empowering her team to lead, actively working on development goals, and stretching her leadership abilities.
Adapting, supporting, and serving
Michael Daley, supervisor, patient access
Michael's leadership journey was profoundly influenced by EOL. He recognized his strengths and opportunities for improvement, and realizing the significance of adaptability, empathy, and active listening. EOL highlighted the importance of asking questions and being open to feedback, and understanding that leadership is about serving others, the organization, and patients. Among his goals, he aims to improve patient satisfaction, and has already made significant progress by moving the needle by 31 percent.
The panel event was moderated by Jeffrey Duerk, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. He spoke passionately about the importance of growth and courage in seizing opportunities. He also shared with the audience that leadership is not about “me;” it is about serving others. Giving people the ability to take responsibility with the appropriate authority is key for leadership growth. He also thanked the participants’ sponsors who played an important role in the development of the EOL graduates.
Learn more about the EOL program. Complete the interest form to learn about enrolling in the next cohort.
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