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Jayhawks in leadership positions are everywhere you look, including through the Jayhawk Career Network. KU Alumni, in partnership with SumnerOne, is highlighting Jayhawk leaders who are models for others in their industries with our “Copy the Leader” program.
What do you do in your work?
I am the Chair of the KU Clinical Laboratory Sciences department and Program Director for nationally-accredited programs. In these roles, I provide department leadership to ensure success of students, faculty, and staff. I oversee academic programs and faculty teaching assignments, promote independent and collaborative fundable research programs in department faculty, and oversee department budgetary and student affairs. I also teach at the undergraduate and graduate level in our programs in clinical laboratory science.
What are the qualities of a good leader?
Good leaders have a mix of qualities that can inspire and motivate others while providing guidance and vision. Key among those are the ability to listen and communicate, being positive, encouraging and respectful, and being decisive yet adaptable and resilient. A good leader builds trust within their team that helps others to reach their personal goals while achieving those of the organization.
How do you practice leadership at your job?
I try to act as a servant leader in which I support the needs of others in order to realize growth and success of individuals and the team as a whole.
What makes a team or group successful?
A successful team works together to achieve shared goals while acknowledging the goals and strengths of individuals. Having clear roles and responsibilities allows team members to hold themselves accountable yet collaboratively and cooperatively support others on the team. A successful team communicates well, trusts and respects its members, and works together to solve problems.
How can leaders in your industry help their organizations adapt to change?
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While change is a source of discomfort, it is inevitable and a normal part of life. Change is an opportunity to be creative, to learn new ways of doing things and new ways of thinking and acting. Leaders can help others adapt to change by encouraging them to see change as an opportunity rather than a threat. Encouraging individuals to be involved and participate in change, to gain new knowledge and skills, and to communicate their concerns can help advance and promote a process that, rather than being seen as inevitable, is seen as something to be embraced.