Glennis Nagel
co-editor
Leadership UNK, a program patterned after Leadership Kearney but with an emphasis on UNK and the university system, will be offered for the first time, beginning next fall.
“The goal is the familiarize staff employees with leadership opportunities on campus and in the Kearney community,” said Dee Ellingson, chair of the Staff Senate Mentoring Committee.
The deadline for applications is May 1. Applications are available by calling or e-mailing Ellingson (8235) or Linda Clark (8516).
For those who are selected, the cost of the program is $50, which may be funded by a sponsor or departmental budget. If cost is a concern, interested individuals may contact Ellingson or Clark. Both are members of the Mentoring Committee.
“Through this program, it is hoped that the participants will have a greater awareness of leadership opportunities on the campus as well as a higher comfort level when interacting with those in administrative roles,” she said. The program was organized by the Mentoring Committee and is endorsed by UNK Chancellor Doug Kristensen. It is partially funded by the Pepsi Staff Development Fund.
Participants will attend eight half-day sessions and one full-day session over a nine-month period, from September to May. The opening session, Sept. 26, will be a retreat in the Sandhills Room of the Nebraskan Student Union. The focus of the opening session will be on campus service and personal growth.
The sessions, and session topics, include: Oct. 17, take business communication and leadership training; Nov. 1, Faculty Senate, meet with executive committee and attend meeting; Dec. 5, meet with UNK administrators including deans, directors and vice chancellors; Jan. 23, learn functions of affiliated and support units; Feb. 25, learn role of Administrative Council; March 26, enhance management and professional skills; April, learn functions of the Board of Regents; and May 14, graduation day.
“Upon completion of the program, it is hoped that the participants will accept leadership roles on the campus and possibly in the community,” Ellingson said. “The program gives participants an opportunity to network with the UNK community.”
