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I Am STEM, STEM & Leadership Academy

I Am STEM, STEM & Leadership Academy

Kim R. Grimes | 2019

Abstract

For years now, girls and women have been and still, are the critical missing part in STEM. Something is seriously wrong with this picture. While women fill almost half of all jobs in the U.S. economy, yet women hold less than 25% of jobs in STEM fields. 1 “Women who do receive STEM degrees are less likely to work in STEM jobs than their male counterparts.” 2 The fact is only 3 out of 100 female students working toward a bachelor’s degree, will be working in a STEM job ten years after their graduation. 3 The numbers are even lower for women of color; Latinas and Black women hold only 1% and 3% of STEM jobs. 4 Although American women dominate the workforce, where are the women in STEM?

It is no secret, nor should it be surprising to learn that women, especially women of color, remain severely underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education, and career fields. 5 With women notably being a dominating force in the U.S. workforce, “Where are the women in STEM?” More importantly, where are the girls and women of color in STEM? Is there a conspiracy that is preventing minorities access? A quick peek into the classroom may assist in finding an answer. Unfortunately, American public schools have not been as successful with educating historically underserved students in math and science than they have with middle-to-upper income and White students. 6 African-American youth and Latino youth are disadvantages when it comes to access to resources and programs.

Nothing is more important than investing in tomorrow’s leaders today. Providing the I AM STEM curriculum to girls in the 8th – 12th grades, who are from economically disadvantaged and underrepresented populations is an investment in our future. The I AM STEM curriculum created to open doors providing girls with options. Options such as to break the cycle of poverty and live above the poverty line; opportunities to explore the possibilities that exist outside of their communities; and options that will allow each girl to give back to their communities and make a difference in our world. My expertise in STEM and Strategic Leadership will be woven through seminars, workshops, creative projects, hands-on activities, presentations, and excursions. The success of our young people is vital to our success as a company. I AM STEM invites young girls of color, living in low-income communities, who are unaware of STEM education and careers, be a part of a ground-breaking program that empowers participants to become powerful “Uncommon Leaders.”


1 Beede, D., Julian, T., Langdon, D., McKittrick, G., Khan, B., & Doms, M. (2011). White Paper Women in STEM: A Gender Gap to Innovation. SSRN Electronic Journal. 10.2139/ssrn.1964782.

2 Ibid.

3 ACT. (2015). White Paper The Condition of STEM 2015 [PDF document]. Retrieved from http://www.act.org/content/dam/act/unsecured/documents/National-STEM-Report-2015.pdf

4 Ashcraft, C., McLain, B. & Eger, E. (2016). White Paper Women in Tech: The Facts. National Center for Women & Technology (NCWIT).

5 Color, G. F. (2017, January 09). Retrieved March 19, 2019, from https://www.grantmakersforgirlsofcolor.org/resources_tags/education-schools/page/9/

6 Google Inc. & Gallup Inc. (2016). White Paper Diversity Gaps in Computer Science: Exploring the Underrepresentation of Girls, Blacks, and Hispanics [PDF document]. Retrieved from http://goo.gl/PG34aH

Foundations: Principles for Ethical Decision-Making

Foundations: Principles for Ethical Decision-Making

Aldeana L. Harris | 2019

Abstract

Decision-makers from the personal to the professional and townships to global organizations grapple with the after-effects of decision-making approaches. There is much discussion regarding ethical decision-making and appropriate social constructs for what theory is best. However, people do not give enough bandwidth to how actually to make ethical decisions. Foundational Principles for Ethical Decision-Making (FP-EDM) is a systematic process to guide ethical decision-making efforts. The FP-EDM was developed not to guarantee 100% accuracy in decision-making efforts. The FP-EDM was developed to help make sound ethical decisions. The Foundational Principles for Ethical Decision-Making (FP-EDM) is a values-based approach founded on the Cardinal Virtues of prudence, temperance, justice, and fortitude. The four elements of the FP-EDM are 1) Be Wise, 2) Be In Control, 3) Practice Impartiality, and 4) Be Bold. It is a life-long learning process that focuses on the whole individual in every area of their lives. Practitioners of the FP-EDM will gain insight on not only what one ought to do, but they will also have a clear and rational understanding of why behaviors are or are not acceptable. The Foundational Principles is a tool to transforms one’s life, to model moral behaviors, it breathes life and focus to those who chose to use it to help shape their lives. The Foundational Principles has the holistic objective of creating individuals who find joy in life knowing they act in a way to do the greatest good.

The Unification Project: A Compelling

The Unification Project: A Compelling “Roadmap” for Independent Churches to Celebrate Their Diversity While Coming Together for Joint Efforts

Adam Hirschy | 2019

Abstract

The Unification Project presents a values roadmap for Spirit and faith-filled independent churches across Iowa to come together for joint efforts through collaboration. Through coming together, the churches can solve problems and ignite a passionate unified plan to become relevant once again in the state. The project incorporates local church assessments to determine current and preferred future values and culture. Cumulative results determine the status of current and future statewide preferred values and culture among respondents. Aligning value forces creates opportunity for like churches to consider joint efforts. Consideration of value force dynamics reveal issues for those working with “like” churches. Greater long-term opportunity is available to those churches who understand their values forces yet collaborate with churches different from them. Church diversity is celebrated. Coming together through understanding each other’s value diversity allows the strengths of one church to complement the weaknesses of another. This unity also brings glory to God.

Leadership Data Against Bullying (LDAB) Project: An 8-Point Plan That Eliminates or Manage Bullying

Leadership Data Against Bullying (LDAB) Project: An 8-Point Plan That Eliminates or Manage Bullying

Angelita Buckman | 2019

Abstract

This research project taught bullying could be eliminated or managed when the Leadership Data Against Bullying (LDAB) project is applied. The formula uses an octagon (eight-point) plan to handle bullying. The plan involves four theories that teach individuals they can control and positively manipulate circumstances that predispose them towards bad behavior: a. Theory of Planned (TPB) prescribes individuals can change and control their behavior, b. General Strain Theory (GST) teaches individuals to navigate strains/vices positively, c. Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) explains individuals will perform favorably when they are equipped, d. Social Control Theory (SCT) teaches moral individuals will not commit crimes. The next step proved servant and transformational leadership styles positively managed the bully. This research also showed implementing earlier education programs proved students would be hesitant to participate in bullying practices. Next, it was shown clinician’s involvement would have a profound impact on aiding the bullying epidemic. Understanding bystander responsibly taught individuals to intervene and help victims. Grooming upstanders were an excellent way to build more victim advocates. Next, it was shown individuals are less likely to bully when they are taught empathy and social skills. Lastly, research showed individuals are less likely to bully when they have severe consequences or made to pay higher fines. The research results from testing four targeted groups: pregnant parents, caretakers of children under 10, children under 10 and bystanders, proved this plan would have a profound impact in managing bullying incidents. Furthermore, the research showed why the congruent octagon formula worked, because each part is just as responsible as the other for eliminating or managing bullying incidents.

City of Things (CoT): Taking the SMART Approach to a Collaborative Future

City of Things (CoT): Taking the SMART Approach to a Collaborative Future

Creston Burse

Abstract

Municipal governments and communities around the world face growing challenges that directly impact their ability to reinvent their communities to compete and meet the rapidly changing demands of the 21st century. As cities once thrived and reaped the benefits in many urbanized areas across the country, today many of those same cities are drastically struggling to create significant new opportunities for social and economic development for all stakeholders and citizens. A smart city is a developed urban area that creates sustainable economic development and high quality of life.[i] In this manuscript, Mississippi, due to its conservative nature, rich history, grim statistics, and breeding ground for opportunity and progress, is used as a case study to provide a comprehensive analysis of the feasibility of implementing a SMART approach in an urban community. This paper explores several Smart Cities and their approaches to education, healthcare, policy and stakeholder engagement. This manuscript also explores the educational, healthcare, and political climates as well as stakeholder engagement in Jackson, MS. Results of the comprehensive analysis showed that through stakeholder engagement, new radical futuristic administration, and innovative approaches to technology, Jackson, MS is poised to become a Smart city that can serve as the model for other Mississippi communities. Results showed that there are several strategies and approaches that have been implemented such as the ONELINE modern transportation project and a TechJxn conference sponsored by the city of Jackson. This manuscript offers recommendations for the city of Jackson to sustainability move towards a SMART city approach.

Abstract keywords: Smart city; Strategy; Mississippi; Stakeholders; Collaboration

[i] Business Dictionary. (2019). Smart City. Business Dictionary. Retrieved from http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/smart-city.html

Moving Faith Forward: The Future of the Church in Uncertain Times

Moving Faith Forward: The Future of the Church in Uncertain Times

Karen Cress | 2019

Abstract

This curriculum, designed for three Continuing EducationUnits (3 CEUs), intends to help pastoral teams in America who want tosuccessfully lead congregationstoward an uncertain future to challenge theirassumptions and biases of hindsight, insight, and foresight, and create a newroad map to position their church for thefuture. The curriculum begins withpatterns of the past and ends with patterns of the future organization.Participants learn new skills in historical mapping,designing Causal Loop Diagrams,completing both S.T.E.E.P.S. and S.W.O.T. analyses on their communities,completing a Business Model Canvas and a ValueProposition Canvas. Also, theywill learn common business models, ending with evaluating their plans withorganizational design’s goal evaluation tool and creatingan implementationschedule to act on the roadmaps made throughout the course.

Toward What is Ahead: Elements of an Anticipatory Leadership Model

Toward What is Ahead: Elements of an Anticipatory Leadership Model

Joseph M. Davenport, III | 2019

Abstract

The art of leadership is as old as the existence of humanity on the planet and yet the challenges that modern leaders face appear to be richer, faster-paced, and more complex than ever. While many leaders find that merely keeping up with the demands of these leadership challenges is enough, premier leaders find ways to anticipate and avoid the problems that plague lesser practitioners of the art, rather than spend their precious hours developing remedies to situations that seem to have evolved out of thin air.1

This book opens with the age-old debate concerning whether managers or leaders better utilize the anticipatory tools essential to modern organizations. We take a look into existing models available to contemporary leaders, exploring their strengths and weaknesses and the commonalities between the models that allow leaders to “see” the future. The exploration continues laying out the framework for the development of the individual as an anticipatory leader.

The second section of the book focuses on the internal organizational forces which impact anticipatory leaders and their ability to apply anticipatory leadership. The third section explores external factors impacting the anticipatory leader, including a detailed look at the Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA) environment and ways the anticipatory leader can meet and thrive its impact on corporate operations and strategies.

The book concludes with the framing of all three elements as they best fit the anticipatory leadership model, using a systems view of the anticipatory leadership model to provide the leader a visual for further insight into the systems thinking mode and demonstrate the interactions among elements in the model. As with any art, flexibility and adaptability remain indispensable for maximum model efficiency within the context of your organization.

1Steven C. Harper, “Timing-The Bedrock of Anticipatory Management” Business Horizons 43, Issue 1 (January-February 2000): 75-76.

Breaking the Cycle of Generational Poverty Using Integrative Leadership

Breaking the Cycle of Generational Poverty Using Integrative Leadership

Ted Davis | 2019

Abstract

The thesis of this book is that, to reduce generational poverty, communities must forge and sustain resilient, cross-sectoral partnerships using integrative public leadership models capable of producing significant social change. The book examines the causes and perpetuators of generational poverty using two social change models—the structural-functional and the socio-psychological models. Secondly, the book defines and explains integrative public leadership for dealing with intractable problems. Thirdly, the book offers recommendations for specific community leaders (e.g., mayors, school boards, business executives, social services executives, and government executives).

Generational poverty occurs when two or more family generations are born in poverty, and therefore, lack resources to move out of poverty. There are four categories of the causes of generational poverty: lack of tangible resources, spatial disadvantages, lack of social and political resources, and lack of economic opportunity. These dysfunctions create an environment in which the impoverished learn to survive above all else. People learn and pass to subsequent generations survival behaviors and perspectives such as strong present-time orientation with little ability for delayed gratification and planning, a sense of resignation and fatalism, low self-esteem and a sense of inadequacy, low esteem for education, and distrust of organizations.

Integrative or collaborative public leadership fosters collective action by multiple stakeholders from various sectors of society, such as coalitions, that work together for the common good. The model brings diverse groups together and guides them in aligning efforts and resources to solve intractable problems. The collective impact model created by John Kania and Mark Kramer has been used extensively and effectively, and this book examines two case studies to illustrate it success.

A Leadership Strategy: Been There and Done That!

A Leadership Strategy: Been There and Done That!

Sharon Downey | 2019

Abstract

Our society is in need of ethical leadership right now. Organizations’ leaders are struggling with their identity, not knowing their leadership style and methods for effectiveness. It takes ongoing self-examination and awareness for authentic leadership development. There is not a final arriving point in leadership, only a continuous understanding point.

However, organizations are promoting emerging leaders into specialized positions based on their higher education. Organizations have expectations that emerging leaders will master leadership from on-the-job training, which can lead to early failures in their work life. Leadership is often not taught, but experienced in a challenging manner within organizations.

Therefore, organizations must do better with their emerging leaders’ growth and development through investing in an onboarding strategy. Leadership is time-consuming, and it requires a strategic plan for leaders to be successful. This manuscript, titled “A Leadership Strategy: Been There and Done That,” is a guide for emerging leaders and those in a leadership role.

It provides leadership direction in nine different sequential building blocks. (1) Leadership: Position vs. Process is an introduction to perspectives of leadership—both stances of position and stances of process. (2) Having a Leadership Mindset is an introduction to leadership thinking as part of developing a leadership stance. (3) Leadership Development is an introduction to practices that can support leadership styles, such as mentoring, coaching, and consulting. (4) Leadership Effectiveness is an introduction to practices that can develop and improve the overall effectiveness of leaders. (5) Measuring Leadership Effectiveness and Efficiency is an introduction to methods and tools to measure and support leadership effectiveness, such as leadership index, 360 feedback, and instrument tools. (6) Challenges in Leadership is an introduction to some challenges for leaders, along with solutions for overcoming challenges. (7) Diversity in Leadership is an introduction to diversity that confronts leaders daily in the business sectors, providing insight on how to have openness to others’ opinions and values. (8) Faith in Leadership is an introduction to Christianity, faith and servant leadership in secular organizations. (9) Pearls of Leadership is an introduction to the rewards and benefits of good leadership, making a difference and changing lives within organizations. The manuscript advocates leadership philosophy and its real-world usage within organizations.

Not Too Big to Bow: Using God

Not Too Big to Bow: Using God’s Plan to Bring Out Your Inner Parent Leader

Deloris Freeman | 2019

Abstract

Do you want your children to be kind, concerned about the world around them, and motivated by Christian principles? The answer that most parents would shout is an astounding “yes!”. Most parents don’t realize that they can use their influence and leadership role to develop their child into a leading adult. Some parents are merely left to figure it out how to confidently raise their babies to be adults. As a mother of three now adult children, Deloris Freeman has learned and continues to learn a lot about parenting. Throughout the course of her studies in Strategic Leadership, Deloris has identified a clear parallel between parenting and leadership. Parenting is one of the most practiced forms of leadership – offering daily opportunities to teach and influence people along with the excellent opportunity to witness the outcome of that leadership over time. With her oldest child being thirty-one, Deloris shares compelling personal experiences and research where she was able to recognize and cultivate the leader within herself to the benefit of her children; and now she’s ready to share to the benefit of you. Not Too Big To Bow will bring the parent eye level with their child so that they can see things from the child’s perspective. The manuscript focuses on empowering the parent to take on their new role with confidence being fully equipped to raise their children to be leading examples.

The original intent of God was for Him to be in every home. The way He does this is by instructing us in His leadership principles to reproduce who He is in our children. Through one parent at a time, raising one child at a time, with godly leadership principles, we can eventually achieve the original intent of the Father. Not Too Big To Bow provides the opportunity to learn and integrate Biblical principles with research and strategy for the simple objective of improving the quality of parent leadership to individuals who inhabit this earth by way of the God-like tenets. Not Too Big To Bow is a captivating story of a mother that has humbly nurtured her children’s needs, and groomed them to success by leading. Not replace the Bible as the number one manual, this manuscript serves as a manual on how you can use your leadership style to guide and help your child identify their style so they can be prosperous and productive leaders.