UofM COLLEGE OF EDUCATION LAUNCHES FIRST EVER LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The University of Memphis’s College of Education launched its inaugural leadership academy. The academy is a first of its kind among all UofM colleges, according to COE Dean Dr. Kandi Hill-Clarke.

Friday, October 27 was the first session of the academy, where its 19 members – who are faculty and staff from across COE – shared their background and their hope(s) of what may come from this new academy. 

"Going into the first session, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but knew it would be a great learning opportunity," said COE faculty member and CREP Director Todd Zoblotsky. "And with the Dean’s [Hill-Clarke] dynamic presence, and serving as a role model of effective leadership, it definitely did not disappoint. In addition to learning more about university operations and administration, by the end of the program, I hope to learn, and have already started to learn, what true organizational leadership looks like and requires."

"Sometimes you don't know what you don't know until you are exposed to it," said COE staff member Talisa Anderson. "I am excited about each meeting as it gives me the chance to grow as a woman, colleague, minister, and leader. I am truly grateful to be apart of the inaugural group."

The intent behind this new initiative is a “two-fold mission,” according to COE Dean Dr. Kandi Hill-Clarke.

“The program provides participants with opportunities to learn more about university operations, administration, and leadership with a focus on succession planning and individual professional/career development,” said Dean Hill-Clarke.

The COE Leadership Academy meets monthly, with the last session and the conclusion of the inaugural group being May 17.