Professional Development

2010, 2011

Executive Leadership Series: Rhode Island Interlocal Risk Management Trust

The Leadership Institute collaborated with The Rhode Island Interlocal Risk Management Trust to provide executive leadership education to its member municipal employees across the state.  The "Managers as Leaders Educational Program" provided information and  the practical application of skills needed for managers to become exceptional leaders in public service.  The Program was designed to foster the participants' critical thinking and creative problem solving abilities.  The ultimate goal was to assist supervisors with their professional development to the extent that they became leaders within their department, organization and the community at large.  The first cohort wrapped up their seminars on June 23, 2010.  The second class (shown above) completed the Series, April 20, 2011.

Participant Comments:

• "I got a lot out of this to help me be a better supervisor and a better co-worker."
• "This course has made me look deeper into my own managing style and help make me aware of areas that I need to improve my skills.”
• “It has given me strength and courage and the confidence to try and implement change and the insight to look within myself to do better.”

2010, 2011

MEPI Student Leaders Institute

The Leadership Institute collaborated with the Spiegel Center for Global and International Programs on the MEPI Civic Engagement Leadership Institute in June and July 2010 and again in 2011.

MEPI (the US Middle East Partnership Initiative) is an initiative of the United States Department of State whose goal is to educate and empower emerging student leaders.  Roger Williams University hosted a total of 29 students during two, five week programs from countries such as Lebanon, Morocco, Israel, Yemen, Jordan, Libya, Kuwait and Iraq. The Leadership Institute provided theoretical and applied education modules in proven leadership practices, civil society, civic engagement and human rights. Participants  explored a range of approaches to solving community problems to determine the best practices applicable to their home country. The ultimate learning outcome for students was to present a positive social change community project to be implemented in the student's home country upon their return.

ACRL-NEC Librarian Leadership Seminar

The Leadership Institute was happy to participate in a one-day workshop on leadership in collaboration with The Association of College and Research Libraries, New England Chapter. The customized, interactive education session  allowed participants to focus on their level of transactional and transformational leadership tendencies and develop an action plan to enhance desired aspects.  Participants  explored communication strategies and practiced those skills.

Librarian Leadership participant comments:

• "I was so impressed with the depth of the presentations and I learned so many important things and met wonderful people...thank you again for the fantastic program.”
• “The day was really valuable for the information it provided, as well as the opportunity to meet colleagues from around New England who are interested in developing leadership skills.  I also thought your afternoon four corners exercise which got us up and active after lunch was brilliant. Great idea!”

Public Administration Academy News and Events: PA Academy Mock Election/Voter Initiative

The Public Administration Academy (PA Academy) at Shea High School in Pawtucket, RI conducted a statewide mock election on October 19, 2010 using ballot issues selected by Rhode Island high school students. Volunteer RWU students participated as Poll Wardens at the voting locations around the state. The volunteer Poll Wardens were trained using state mandated training materials and state sanctioned trainers.  

The PA Academy was affiliated with this project as part of the public administration and civics curriculum under a grant funded by the state of RI and the federal government to educate high school students about the voting process. Approximately 20 high schools participated. The PA Academy and its faculty designed the mock election to be as close to reality as possible.

If you are interested in learning more about this initiative, please contact Dr. Michael Hall, MPA Program Director, at (401) 254-5746 or by email at mhall@rwu.edu.

The Leadership Institute
Guest Lecture Series

The Leadership Institute brings highly accomplished and brilliant individuals to campus to share their perspectives on leadership.  In the past our guest speakers have been:

Brian MacLean
President and Chief Operating Officer
The Travelers Companies, Inc.

David C. Wajsgras
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Raytheon Company

Mark Mandell, Esq.
Senior Partner
Mandell Schwartz & Boisclair