Earning rave reviews from those taking part in the first cohort, the Staff Professional Development Academy is accepting applications for a new group of fellows.
Employees are encouraged to learn all about the year-long career development opportunity offered through the Office of the President and apply by May 1.
In the words of participants, the experience brings insight, understanding, perspective and connection.
“I would really encourage anyone to apply who is either looking for an opportunity to develop a professional knowledgebase on how NIU functions within the higher education landscape or looking for a meaningful professional development experience that connects you with colleagues across campus,” said participant Lauren Teso-Warner, director of Residential Life for Housing and Residential Services.
“I have never in my career been presented such an amazing opportunity to learn directly from such a diverse group of accomplished scholars and experts.”
The Staff Professional Development Academy is open to all non-academic, full-time service and SPS employees. A cohort of up to 15 academy fellows will participate in 10 monthly sessions with a diverse group of university leaders; engaging and interactive leadership activities; networking; and a mentor program.
A full program description provides more information about the program goals, curriculum and the application process. The following virtual information sessions also are planned:
“The academy strives to create a network of leaders at all levels and areas of the university to further promote and sustain a culture of shared leadership at NIU,” said Matt Streb, President Lisa Freeman’s Chief of Staff. “Our first cohort has been exceptional, and I’m excited to select next year’s cohort.”
Those interested in applying for the academy are asked to complete an online form and provide a brief letter of interest, current résumé and completed supervisor’s recommendation form. Supervisors can nominate candidates who will be invited to complete the online form as well.
Like other participants, Heidi Carlson, associate director of Event Production at the Holmes Student Center, applied to better understand the different departments within the university.
“The program brings together a group of individuals from such different roles, different experiences and backgrounds. This includes not only the participants, but also the mentors, facilitators and presenters,” she said. “This diverse group created an opportunity to have unique discussions. I really appreciated that.”
Participants are exposed to multiple facets of university leadership, operations, governance and the current higher education landscape.
“Before my participation, I really only saw my slice of the NIU pie,” said participant Kellie Dyslin, director of Funding Development and Lifecycle Enhancement in the Division of Research and Innovation Partnerships. “My experience in the academy has opened my eyes to how the university functions as a whole entity and how vital connections between divisions really are for the overall health of the institution. I have a deeper understanding of the NIU mission and vision and my division’s role in it.”
Among the many benefits, say those who took part in the first cohort, are the relationships formed, especially with their mentors. Mentorships provide someone to go to for advice and “the occasional gut-check,” Dyslin said.
As a participant, Nancy Prange, director of NIU’s Dietetic Internship program in the School of Health Studies, was paired with mentor Laurie Elish-Piper, dean of the College of Education.
“Our discussions on leadership have helped identify the style of leader I appreciate and hope to become,” Prange said.
She praised the academy for allowing her to see the university with a broader lens. Monthly sessions include discussions by different leadership teams on campus, and the knowledge gained is invaluable, Prange said.
“This allowed us to see how each department fits into the larger workings of the university,” she said. “It was interesting to hear about how each has evolved over time according to student trends, to fill gaps or to become more efficient. But my favorite part was seeing the Huskie pride each group had in their work and the impact they have on students, staff and the community.”
Participants say they now can share the information they’ve learned about university programs outside of their own with others, including future Huskies.
Large portions of the program focus on professional growth and enhancing staff’s leadership skills, such as consensus-building, conflict resolution, self-awareness and creating shared goals.
“My favorite session so far was our talk on being a student-centered university and having a panel of students for a Q&A session,” said participant Linda Condon, advisor in the University Honors Program. “This academy has not only increased my overall knowledge of NIU but also focuses on our individual development.”
For more information or questions, contact President Staff Fellow Jessica Nunez at jtotz1@niu.edu.
