Since 2014, UM’s Essentials of Leadership program has graduated more than 700 University leaders. The program, which kicks off its thirteenth series later this month, invited Provost Duerk to lead a panel discussion reflecting on the experiences of select participants and their main take-aways. The event included networking and a reception to celebrate the graduates. We caught up with some participants and asked them to reflect on their experience.
01
No regrets
“Being a leader is about giving your employees the opportunity to excel. Even if you consider yourself a good leader, you will learn new things from the program and your peers. Start the program with an open mind. You will not regret it.”
—Maita Beguiristain, Purchasing Department, Sourcing Director
02
It’s an ongoing journey
“Leadership is a continuous journey, no matter where you are in your career, and you must continually keep working at being a good leader. It’s about listening more and talking less, asking more questions, and scheduling one-on-one meetings with my team more frequently.”
—Jodi Sypher, Lowe Art Museum, Curator of Education
03
Look inward
“Throughout the program, I met colleagues with more experience and had the opportunity to listen and ask questions openly. I gained self-awareness by learning to identify my own challenges and areas of improvement. I enjoy building my team and helping them develop as leaders themselves, and look forward to having the chance to implement what I’ve learned.”
—Julia Valladares, University of Miami Hospital, Patient Access Supervisor
The Essentials of Leadership program supports UM leaders in their role as coaches and mentors. The five-month program, hosted by the Office of Talent and Organizational Development, helps participants explore their individual leadership style, understand learning styles, gain confidence in handling difficult conversations at work, and expand their professional network with colleagues across the University.
