Graduate College Emerging Leaders Academy

Here are some testimonials from our earlier participants:

"In GC-ELA, I have engaged in a different type of learning than any experienced as an academic thus far. In GC-ELA, I've learned about how I lead and interact with people. The meetings prompted self-reflection and thought-provoking discussions and activities regarding leadership styles. I already feel like a more well-rounded individual, both professionally and personally."

"I started this program thinking I have at least a basic idea about what leadership means. During the short period of time I was involved in GC-ELA proved how little I actually knew about being a true leader, and what leadership really means. I have learned more about myself, my type personality, my leadership style, what strengths I bring in to a team environment, what are my weakness, how to overcome them. This program changed the way I view things in general. I learned about team building, communication, and the importance of being a culturally competent leader in a society which is vastly diverse. It was a delight to hear from the experts from different fields how they tackle problems, what makes them more successful, and what qualities we need to cultivate as future leaders. I would never have given the considerations as to which members should be included in a team to cover all the bases, had I not learnt the importance of what type personalities should be included in a team for it to be a successful team."

The academy will be for one year with approximately 5 full-day sessions each semester. The program sessions will focus on:

• Leadership research, theory and practice
• Ethics
• Collaboration and teamwork
• The effects of gender and diversity issues on work teams
• Communication
• The program culminates in a semester-long mentoring experience for each participant with a current Iowa State leader