The University of Missouri offers two leadership development programs for administrative staff, the Administrative Leadership Development Program (ALDP) and a new program, Series on Leadership Essentials (SOLE). Both programs provide participants from across the University of Missouri System an opportunity to network and share learning experiences.

The ALDP is a prestigious program that provides professional development and ongoing support across key leadership competencies. UMKC has graduated seventy-seven staff members since the program’s inception in 2005. This year’s cohort showed great flexibility as the program shifted from meeting in person to a virtual format as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kady McMaster, Assistant Director of Creative Services with Strategic Marketing and Communications shared her experience with ALDP.  “The program was a terrific experience, both before COVID and after. We enjoyed being together in Columbia at the first part of the program, then virtually after the pandemic hit. ALDP provided me the opportunity to meet leaders across System, as well as right here at UMKC. I so value that networking, along with the personal connections I made through the program.”

Kady added, “Our UMKC “cohort” met monthly and shared challenges and experiences with each other. We also encouraged one another to be better managers and leaders. A big takeaway? Trust. It’s the basis for every strong relationship, and a vital starting point for managers and those with whom they work.”

Congratulations to the following UMKC staff members who completed the Administrative Leadership Development Program this year:

• John Aust, Intramurals & Campus Recreation
• Laura Begley, Graduate Health Professions in Medicine
• Amber Daugherty, Office of Registration & Records
• Jeffery Heckathorn, Data & Software Application Services
• Makini King, Division of Diversity and Inclusion
• Becky Markley, Office of the Provost
• Kady McMaster, Strategic Marketing and Communications
• Sarah Mote, KC SourceLink

This fall the Series on Leadership Essentials (SOLE) was launched as a pilot program. The SOLE program met virtually and was facilitated by the University of Missouri System Human Resources Learning & Organizational Development team. This program focuses on developing leaders in the areas of communication, engagement, giving and receiving feedback, and navigating change.

Amelia Howard, Assistant Director of Academic Support for Athletics, “thoroughly enjoyed the SOLE program – it was interactive, informative and applicable to my every day job.” Amelia also shared, “Learning about how leaders can shift their mindsets to be growth oriented was an overarching concept that helped relate all 6 of the sessions together. I think my favorite session was about communication and coaching. I learned about the various levels of engagement at work and how consistent and transparent communication is important to show your staff and peers that they are valued and their engagement matters. I would recommend this program to anyone wanting to hone their leadership skills or review their existing practices.”

Congratulations to our first class of UMKC SOLE program completers:

• Jalonn Gordon, UMKC Police
• Amelia Howard, Intercollegiate Athletics
• Myisha Sims, University Libraries

The Talk it Up window is now open for Employees and Supervisors to connect and celebrate some of the success they have had so far, especially with some of us continuing to work remote. It is comparatively hard to get regular feedback since physical distance might prevent informal exchanges. It is also a perfect time for employees to plan for the next quarter; and get supervisor’s insight on their focus areas and development needs.

We hope Talk It Up in December 2020 will provide:

• Opportunity to both Employees and Managers to align their expectation and focus areas centered towards individual growth, and success of the department/ University
• Insights on how an employee is doing towards meeting their development goals (set during earlier Talk It Up conversations)
• Opportunity for employees to take proactive approach towards their development

Please set aside time with your supervisor now! Visit the Talk it Up webpage for more information, including sample agendas, helpful tips, and more.

Thank you all for playing an active role in building a culture of ongoing dialogues focused on mutual growth and development.