I had the privilege of serving on faculty for the 2016 NASPA Alice Manicur Symposium, held January 21 – January 24, 2016 in San Antonio, Texas.
The Alice Manicur Symposium is specifically designed for women at the middle management level considering a move to become vice presidents of student affairs. Sponsored by NASPA’s Center for Women, the Alice Manicur Symposium is an engaging and supportive environment for participants to learn and reflect on personal goals and aspirations. This is an application based institute offered every two years and allows time for in-depth discussions and small, faculty-led mentor group sessions. Additionally, participants meet one-on-one with experienced VPSA faculty members as well as participate in content sessions on topics such as: strategic thinking, leading change, planning for career advancement, and work / life balance.
Although I have served on similar institutes, the Alice Manicur symposium was a profound experience. Here are my top 10 thoughts from being with senior leaders in the profession, and 80 women who are “up and coming” very quickly!
1. Say yes—to experiences and opportunities even when the quiet voice within says “you can’t do this.” You can and you will. Be bold and brave, say yes.
2. Remember when you bring your bold, brave, authentic self to any situation you have an opportunity to inspire others.
3. Search firms assist you in reaching your highest aspirations.
4. There is more to a vendor/client relationship if you are true partners in the enterprise of education.
5. Remember that your well-being (mind, body, spirit) needs to be engaged to be an inspiring leader for change.
6. As Susan Scott, from Fierce Conversation shares: the conversation is the relationship.
7. Negotiate from strength; know and trust your worth.
8. Every day you send signals about your “leadership material.” What does yours say about you?
9. If you fall down…get back up.
10. The ability to connect with people is the emotional capital that defines great leaders.
I hope all of these speak to you in one way or another. Which one resounds the loudest? Are you great at some, good at others, and/or need to work on one or two? I encourage you to take time to reflect on the bolded words, set goals, and achieve what you dream!