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Leadership for the NOW

Leadership for the NOW…Empowering Youth (Generation Z) and Young Adults (Millennials) for Today

Jalyn Lyde | 2021

Abstract

Northouse (2019) describes leadership as a person that can influence others to a result. As Christian leaders continue to develop character, integrity, and Christian principles in others, it is important that one must realize it is their duty to pull out gifts and jewels in others. Eph. 4:11-12 tells one that God continues to call out those teachers, administrators, apostles for the equipping and gifting of the kingdom and saints for the ministry to build up the body of Christ. This scripture speaks to gifted people helping with church work, knitting and synergy of people. Throughout history strategic leadership and other leadership theories are important to the development of the people. Servant leadership is one area that helps youth and young adult leaders. The Leadership for the NOW Empowerment Conference will embrace young leaders, synergize the seasoned leaders of the church with young leaders, supply space for young women in leadership to discuss their roles and supply a place of worship for the Generation Z and Millennials to lead in their own way. As leaders walk away from the conference, they will be able to name what a leader is, what leadership looks like from their perspective, name servant leadership strategies/characteristics, examine next steps, understand mentorship opportunities and relationships as they work in whole group and team activities.

Opening

Strategic Leadership is an overly complex theory that one can adapt to in many levels of society. Strategic leadership means that leaders must be intentional and target specific areas and/or goals to bring a group of people to their end results. Leaders concentrate on strategic leadership and as they help guide, mold, shape and transform others. Servant Leadership theory is just one that enables leaders to empower others. Webster dictionary tells one that empowering means the act of giving power or influence. Hence, supplying self-actualization and encouragement spaces for the younger generation allows them to understand leadership development. Therefore, teaching the foundation of leadership, having young leaders share with seasoned leaders and congregants’ helps all understand cultural differences of youth and young adults and how they are surviving during these unprecedented times. Today’s society cannot afford to lose the minds of the future generation. Generation Z and Millennials have a mindset and thinking process that is different and society must embrace the new leaders and still teach God-given principles and foundations to help them along. Seasoned leaders are influencers, models, mentors, and encouragers but must remain diligent to the younger generation by providing time and space to help them lead. Empowering youth and young adults are imperative to the nation. That is why the Leadership for the NOW, EMPOWERMENT conference was developed. As founder and CEO of Female and Male Empowerment the Living Word Mentor Program, God revealed that the assignment was to continue to teach, model, and supply leadership ability to youth and young adults for today!

Dirty Hands, Busted Knuckles: A Primer for Practical Leadership

Dirty Hands, Busted Knuckles: A Primer for Practical Leadership

Dale Foster | 2021

Abstract

The Dirty Hands, Busted Knuckles manuscript integrates and synthesizes three key leadership domains that typically are not presented holistically or within one cover, i.e., perspective, people, and process. The manuscript is oriented to new leaders or those approaching leadership opportunities; however, seasoned leaders may also benefit from the integrated and synthesized approach as leadership aspects such as Discovery Learning, the power and impact of culture, and the critical tools of process management are interwoven thematically.

Regardless of level every formal leader is a choreographer of resources, people, processes, and time as these four variables interplay at the point where the organization’s work is accomplished. If not properly choreographed then organization effectiveness is impeded. This choreography is a recurring phenomenon as every leader interaction either enhances or degrades daily performance.

Of note, as Thomas Sowell indicated “There are no solutions. There are only tradeoffs.” This holds especially true in resource constrained environments which, typically, are found in most every organization. This type of internally constrained environment, overlayed by an external operating environment that is highly volatile and ever changing, requires leaders who are mentally agile, skilled in the nuances of emotional intelligence, and masters of the various media for both strategic and 1:1 communication.

Understanding the interrelationships and interdependencies of perspective, people, and process is critical for those with the honor and the burden of leadership. Dirty Hands, Busted Knuckles postures leaders to become better choreographers of these domains.

Think Design Lead Curriculum

Think Design Lead Curriculum

Jeffrey W. Ganthner | 2021

Abstract

Failing people and organizations is often a direct result of not understanding one’s purpose, mission, and talents both on an individual and organizational level. The goal of individuals and organizations should be to serve others. This is done through leadership. However, prior to leadership both people and organizations need to understand their faith, beliefs, values, how to think, and how to design (identify and solve issues and problems).

Think Design Lead (TDL) is curriculum focused on developing the skills, mastering techniques, and utilizing tools for individuals to more effectively think, design, and ultimately lead others. Acting on assumptions often leads to the delivery of ineffective solutions. The TDL process has three distinct stages where it moves an individual or team from the “thinking” stage through design and then to implementation and leading.

Regardless of the complexity of the task or the leadership challenge, all three stages of the process are to be delivered sequentially to achieve success. While the importance of beliefs, values, and faith are referenced throughout the curriculum, the focus is primarily understanding and applying how to think, design, and ultimately lead.

Four courses comprise TDL. The first course, TDL 101 – Fundamentals of Thinking and Design, introduces individuals to the concept of thinking and design as a process to first identify and then solve problems. The second course, TDL 102 – Thinking and Design Applications, applies knowledge gleaned from TDL 101 to four individual problems to generate solutions. The third course, TDL 201 – Fundamentals of Leadership, introduces different types of leadership and leadership characteristics with a special emphasis on authentic leadership, servant leadership, situational leadership, and transformational leadership theories. The fourth course, TDL 202 – Leadership Applications, studies different case studies to identify problems, develop solutions, and provide leadership directives for implementation. All four courses work together and seek to develop both understanding and skills needed today for leaders to be successful.

Think Design Lead process diagram showing three sequential stages: Stage 1 highlights THINK (Identifying + Assessing), Stage 2 highlights DESIGN (Creating + Solving), and Stage 3 highlights LEAD (Implementing + Leading), connected by arrows showing progression through the process.

Knock it Off! How to Quit Being a Jerk @ Work (Straight Answers Series, Book 1)

Knock it Off! How to Quit Being a Jerk @ Work (Straight Answers Series, Book 1)

Guyla Greenly | 2021

Abstract

Some things should go without saying, but research and conversations with employers show too many essential knowledge nuggets about workplace professionalism have gone without saying for far too long. Knock it off! is a no-punches-pulled self-help book that gives readers straight answers on what it takes to succeed in the workplace. The book covers four sections, with checklists for success at the end of each chapter

Section One: The Importance of Knowing Yourself. The fundamental precept in this section is that it is difficult to sell yourself to potential employers if you do not know your strengths, weaknesses, and skill sets. Chapters covered in this section include personality type, CliftonStrengths Finder, VIA Character Strengths, the five languages of appreciation in the workplace, and one’s appearance.

Section Two: First Impressions. Chapters in this section extensively cover resume and cover letter writing, phone etiquette and scheduling an interview, how to prepare for in-person and virtual consultations, tips for successful interviews, and following up after the interview. Biases, body language, and questions hiring managers legally may not ask are also discussed.

Section Three: You got the Job! Now what? From preparing for your first day on the job to becoming indispensable, this section ensures readers are ready to succeed from day one. In addition, this section includes tips for showing initiative when you do not know what to do and warns against the typical behaviors that lead to employment loss.

Section Four: Finishing Well. The last section walks readers through the process of deciding when it is time to move on to new opportunities. Readers learn the best practices for leaving a job on good terms and why that is important to their career.

Keywords: professionalism, employment, success, job search, interview skills, coaching, assessments

Connect. Elevate. Expand. © Growth Model: A Framework for Transformational Growth

Connect. Elevate. Expand. © Growth Model: A Framework for Transformational Growth

Donyale Grisson | 2021

Abstract

Today’s business leaders face tremendous pressure to increase performance and promote growth. Inextricably linked to an organization’s success is its ability to adapt and innovate. No matter where you find yourself on this leadership journey, now is the time to create transformational change. Uncertain times and evolving demands often evoke fear. How do we keep moving forward when fear or uncertainty feels paralyzing? How do we rally the troops and encourage them to keep being and giving their best? How do we create environments where innovation happens? I believe the answer is a perspective shift. In pursuit of growth, we often overlook, minimize, or entirely omit time for reflection, learning, and change. Facing new challenges, growing, and flourishing amid uncertainty and ambiguity requires a new way of seeing, thinking, and being.

For this purpose, I offer a simple tool called the CEE© Growth Model. It provides a framework for growth–discovering, designing, and delivering change that develops the human element of strategy. The CEE© Growth Model empowers current, emerging, and aspiring leaders to develop leadership effectiveness. This model aims to invoke increased self-awareness, growth-minded thinking, collaborative conversations, purpose-driven decision-making, and progressive development. Introduced in the subsequent pages, I provide a visual representation and application of the growth journey. The purpose of this dynamic 3-step process is to help you move from where you are to where you want to be:

  1. Connect
  2. Elevate
  3. Expand

This framework will help leaders connect to vision, elevate their mindsets, and expand their capacity to influence transformation on their leadership journey. First, this primer explores growth, including its common inhibitors, the role of strategy and culture, and leadership. Second, I review the foundational elements–emotional intelligence and design thinking–that support the CEE© Growth Model, emotional intelligence, and design thinking. Third, I share the model’s components and explain the expected outcomes. Finally, the last section includes prototype testing and results.

Preparing Nurse Leaders to Be that Change: A VA Nurse Leadership Institute (VANLI) Program Curriculum

Preparing Nurse Leaders to Be that Change: A VA Nurse Leadership Institute (VANLI) Program Curriculum

Jacquelyn Heaston-Owens | 2021

Abstract

Though sometimes hidden or undeveloped, there is a leader inside of every nurse, despite being a novice staff nurse at the bedside or the more experienced nurse executive in the boardroom. The VANLI program curriculum provides healthcare systems with this transformational opportunity to awaken potential nurse leaders and cause them to rise to the forefront during difficult and changing times. Whether in community hospitals, the private sector, or the Veterans Healthcare Administration, discovering the nurses’ significant impact in the health industry, regardless of setting, and the value they bring to the crucial and essential role of nurse leadership now and in the future is a key curriculum feature. As an added feature, the VANLI curriculum incorporates Veteran Centric information for leaders who work with this special population of patients and allows program participants to integrate 12 Learning Modules for effective leadership development.

Each module focuses on relevant leadership topics or issues, such as clarifying values, overcoming challenges, understanding leadership theories and styles, examining leadership attributes and competencies, exploring ethical decision-making, legal considerations, best practices, and much more. The VANLI curriculum employs associated learning lessons and recalls quizzes, self-directed studies, supplemental readings, research information, video triggers, skill activation exercises, and pre-work activities to assist and prepare program participants to lead and with the tools to succeed.

Redefining Philanthropy: An Executive

Redefining Philanthropy: An Executive’s Guide to Creating Equitable Change from the Inside Out

Tyran Hill | 2021

Abstract

The Covid-19 global pandemic and the many social justice uprisings observed over the past almost two years have increasingly shed light on systemic and institutional powers that disadvantage specific populations while benefiting others. As a knee-jerk response, many boards and leaders immediately tapped into their best public relations resources to create carefully crafted statements condemning institutional injustices while generally supporting proposed reform efforts. The disparate impact of these unprecedented times does not tell a story of a new phenomenon unobserved in the past. Instead, it applies a magnifying glass to centuries worth of underlying issues in need of higher regard and evaluation to develop corrective measures rooted in equity by every definition.

Over the past decade, research has revealed that minorities are not equally represented within different levels of participating organizations or across organizations in the philanthropic sector. The alarming statistics from recent data and other systemic practices used to strategically disadvantage people and communities of color further underscore the need for philanthropic institutions to reassess all of their policies and strategies internally and externally. As a result, many leaders find themselves stuck searching for strategies to “right the ship” with very little training or resources to assist along the way. To address this immediate gap and support leaders for long-term change, this publication positions leadership coaching as the vessel for creating the internal and external changes needed to address organizational culture and design in philanthropic institutions.

The book is intentionally written in two parts. The first part focuses on establishing a baseline understanding of the knowledge required before implementing change initiatives within your institution. The second incorporates more practical steps to creating meaningful change while highlighting how leadership coaching services can benefit white and people of color-led institutions. This work can look different for various foundation structures, whether community, public or private. However, one thing is certain. The intentionality of working to create more inclusive institutions is necessary for any philanthropic institution seeking to thrive during current times and in the future.

Strategic Plan for U.S. Church Engagement for Wycliffe Bible Translators

Strategic Plan for U.S. Church Engagement for Wycliffe Bible Translators

Jennifer Holloran | 2021

Abstract

This manuscript provides a strategic plan for a large U.S. missions organization, addressing its U.S. church engagement efforts. Like many missions organizations, The Organization has historically wrestled with engaging U.S. churches effectively outside of the networks that its missionaries develop in support of their individual ministries. This manuscript explores The Organization’s history relating to U.S. churches and cultural and relational issues between U.S. churches and parachurch organizations that have encouraged competition instead of partnership.It provides an exegetical study of Acts 15:1-35, resulting in principles for overcoming obstacles and working toward unity across differences.

The manuscript then uses a design thinking approach to investigate various stakeholders’ perspectives, including those from other organizations, church pastors and leaders, and The Organization’s staff. This input provides insight into healthy church-parachurch partnerships and opportunities specific to The Organization. Data analysis also provides The Organization with additional insight into areas for growth.

Based on the knowledge gained from the areas of study, the manuscript provides The Organization with an operational definition for engaging with the U.S. Church, guiding principles for engagement, and a strategic plan to help The Organization achieve its goals in U.S. church engagement. While tailored for The Organization, the manuscript’s strategic elements provide guidance for any organization seeking to engage with U.S. churches. For effective church-parachurch partnerships, organizations must replace the traditional transactional methodology of the past with practices that encourage mutuality in partnership and demonstrate the organization’s readiness to serve the Church.

Financial Literacy: Saving America

Financial Literacy: Saving America’s middle class from financial ruin

Joycelyn Jackson | 2021

Abstract

Look around you. Four of the first ten people you see are battling a pandemic that can destroy lives on multiple levels. Middle-class families in the United States simply don’t have enough money to pay bills. Projections show the situation will not get better unless consumers learn how to manage their money better. Debt for the middle-class will continue to rise. Increasedindebtedness will go in the opposite directionwith a comprehensive and sustained financial education in grades K-12.

We use the storytelling format of the documentary to explore the root cause of the middle-class’ financial distress in the United States and worldwide. Meticulous focus exposes the plight of African Americans who shoulder a more substantial debt burden than any other group. Through primary and secondary research, we find that improved financial education strengthens financial stability and lessens the consequence of debt, such as predatory lending practices or homelessness.

Anecdotal stories are a microcosm of a universal issue. Our findings reveal a strong correlation between financial literacy and financial well-being. The results suggest comprehensive financial education can reverse the middle class’ financial fragility and increase African Americans’ ability to build generational wealth and gain social justice.

Keywords: financial literacy, middle class, education, debt

Leadership-in-Community: The Missiology, Community & Ethics of Missional Leadership

Leadership-in-Community: The Missiology, Community & Ethics of Missional Leadership – A Spiritual Formation Curriculum for Missional Leaders

Lee Carter | 2021

Abstract

Many leadership theories have influenced the way practitionersframe leadershipfor themselves and their organizations. However, the landscape of Christian mission is volatile, uncertain, chaotic, and ambiguous. It is a world that often renders the most well-intended leadership theories inadequate to address the unpredictable realities that missional leaders face. Leadership theories place an often too-heavy burden upon the person of the leader, rather than the interconnectedness of all participants in the mission, to navigate this world and have the right answers.

Christian mission is rooted in the missio Dei, the mission of the One Triune God who exists in the eternal communion, interdependence, and love of three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The outgoing relationality of God issues forth in the creation of his human image bearers, the imago Dei. He invites his image bearers into the same relationality that extends the good reign of God throughout the cosmos by their culture making. God is on the move! And missional leadership is grounded in our calling to be his image bears, those who reflect his character and creativity in this world where God is on mission.

The purpose of this curriculum is the spiritual formation of missional leaders into “leadership-in-community.” This study encourages participants to explore the missiology, community, and ethics of leadership-in-community. They learn that missional leadership reflects the goodness of God by its priority of relationality, servantship, hospitality, and peacemaking. Leadership-in-community welcomes diverse voices, gifts, perspectives, and differences as God’s gift to the mission for making sense of the world in which we are called to be his witnesses. The curriculum utilizes the eight movements of lectio missio to engage missional leaders in community with Scripture, prayers, readings, and mission experiences that promote learning and ongoing spiritual formation.