How would you describe the overall experience?
Overall my experience with the Leadership Institute was excellent. From the first meeting at the 2010 Illinois ASBO Conference, the entire process has been handled with great professionalism. Dr. Jacoby should be proud of his work and that of the other facilitators. He has put together a well-qualified group of individuals with varying strengths and talents for maximum student benefit. The mission of the institute, “Leadership through the Development of Others”, has been promoted throughout the process thus far. It is a reminder of why we are part of this special group. I am personally looking forward to continuing with the program throughout the remainder of our time.

What was especially meaningful to you?
The most meaningful part of the program has been the group interaction. Having 16 different individuals from various parts of the state and differing in backgrounds, current job duties and future job expectations, the group interaction has provided a valuable learning opportunity where each person can hone his/her leadership traits while doing so in a safe environment. Failure and frustration is part of the process and should be expected in this type of program, but the chance to learn from these setbacks, with the encouragement of the facilitators and the other students, makes the institute unique and exciting.

Have you been able to implement ideas from the training on the job?
One of many positive benefits of the training has been the practical lessons learned from the Institute with immediate application into the everyday work situation. During the Joint Conference meeting, many of the students had incredible stories of implementing leadership characters learned at the Institute. The results of employing these lessons were students who spoke about far-reaching successes that probably would not have been achieved.

What would you say to people who are considering participation?
I would highly encourage others who are interested in leadership development to seriously consider the application. The amount of information presented along with the quality of the facilitators makes the cost and time commitment a non-factor in the decision process. The one area I believe each potential student should ponder is the amount of energy and self-determination that he or she is willing to put forward to make the institute a true success. It is one thing to have great leadership material available along with highly qualified facilitators eager to teach. In my view, this program works best with students wanting to immerse themselves into the learning process; individuals who are willing to take risks concerning their strengths and weaknesses and who can be totally honest through self-reflection.

 

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"THE SINGLE BEST INVESTMENT OF MY TIME AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DOLLARS"

Jennifer Hermes, 2010 Cohort
Asst. Supt./Business Services
Lake Forest SD 67

How would you describe the overall experience?
Overall it was no question the single best investment of my time and professional development dollars.

What made it different for me from the insight I received on myself and my leadership tendencies. The question is, “Now that I know myself better, now what? How I can make change based on what I know?” This is especially true during the immersion meeting but also during the follow up talking to others.

Practicing the strategies and techniques is key. (“What did I learn? I want to try this in my district.”)The group felt like a masters program cohort. It was people who are going through the same thing, and speak the same language – I really enjoyed that.

What was especially meaningful to you?
The focus on situational leadership. We talked about quadrants – task and relationship quadrants. I walked away with the ability to look at staff and see where they fit.

I recently had a difficult employee situation – At the Leadership Institute I got some perspective, learned why this was difficult and where she fit into those relationship quadrants. Ultimately, she was never able to get out of that quadrant.

I now understand how people get through this continuum to produce quality work – which has helped my relationships with my staff. I can tailor what they need based on where they are so that everyone is moving and growing. I can understand where they are at and whether they need to build their confidence, get more positive feedback, etc.

Have you been able to implement the training on the job?
Yes! Right after the first session and even before second. I knew myself better and identified preferences in colleagues and staff members. When I’ve responded or reacted differently, the outcome or relationship itself has been much more positive. I’ve had good results.

It has helped me also when other people are having difficulty with others; I could walk them through the process as well.

What would you say to people who are considering participation?
1. You won’t be disappointed. If you are seriously interested in working on yourself and your leadership, this seminar is everything you could hope for.

2. Be prepared. The feedback that you receive is a little more truth than some like to admit. There is a lot of self reflection. Don’t take things too personally – be thankful for the feedback and the opportunity to reflect and move forward.
 

 

Find out more about the Institute: Ready to experience the Leadership Institute as a part of the next cohort? Download a Leadership Institute application and the letter of recommendation form.​