Dear Faculty RelationsÌý–ÌýI serve in a leadership role in my unit and I’m curious to explore more senior roles. Do current campus leaders have any insights to share from their own paths?ÌýÌý–ÌýCurious to ServeÌý

Dear Curious to ServeÌý–ÌýDo you know about the Excellence in Leadership Program (ELP)? Each year, ELP engages our faculty and staff Fellows in seminars with peers from across the CU System. Our fellows also participate in a series of conversations with senior leaders here in Â鶹ӰԺ. These seminars and conversations are rich with the sorts of insights you mention.ÌýÌý

In my experience, while senior leaders take different paths to their roles, they do have a few things in common. When presented with opportunities for learning and growth, they follow their curiosity, embrace change, and accept risk and ambiguity. (A tall order to be sure!) Most of these leaders also speak about the importance of relationships with mentors and colleagues as essential to their growth and well-being. Ìý

I have especially enjoyed hearing leadership speak about the values and competencies they view as integral. Here are a few of the qualities that they value:ÌýÌý

  • fairness
  • ​c´Ç³¾±è²¹²õ²õ¾±´Ç²Ô
  • ​c´Ç³Ü°ù²¹²µ±ð
  • ³¦³Ü°ù¾±´Ç²õ¾±³Ù²âÌý
  • ±ð³¾±è²¹³Ù³ó²âÌý
  • generosity
  • humility
  • positivity, even in the face of challengeÌý

And here are some of the abilities they identify as important:ÌýÌý

  • learning from mistakesÌý
  • ​separating criticism from reasoned critiqueÌý
  • listening wellÌý
  • seeking and finding joyÌýÌý

As you walk your own path, you might pick a couple of these values and abilities on which to focus. You might also ask the leaders closest to you about their own journeys. Remember, leadership doesn’t look the same in every person and place. Take the time to find and walk your own path. And reach out if you’re interested in learning more about the ELP!ÌýÌý

Written by Merinda McLure, Faculty Fellow for Excellence in Leadership Program (ELP), Office of Faculty Affairs; Professor, Health and Human Sciences Librarian, April 2024.