On the morning of December 3rd, the PAF cohort and member of the PAT were delighted to welcome members of the senior leadership at GW to discuss the tenants of leadership. Panelists included: Terri Harris Reed, Vice Provost for Diversity and Inclusion; Lynn Goldman, Michael and Lori Milken Dean of the School of Public Health; Paul Berman, Vice Provost for Online Education and Academic Innovation; and Sabrina Ellis, Vice President of University Human Resources.
The panel focused on the notion of “Leading in Challenging Times.” Moderated by Peter Konwerski, the panelists were asked to reflect on their own experiences in leadership roles and serving as mentors to others. Vice Provost Berman emphasized leadership “isn’t about you as a leader,” and it is important to recognize the strengths of your team members over your own personal gains. Dean Goldman reminded us that opportunities for leadership occur at every level of one’s career – and that it’s important to capitalize on those moments. Vice Provost Reed and Vice President Ellis shared the similar notion that mentors can come at all stages of one’s professional career – and are not always who you would expect. All the panelists provided the PAFs with ideas for establishing mentoring relationships and harped on their extraordinary value.
The discussion with the panelists is invaluable as we work into the second semester in our current placements and seek opportunities outside the GW community. The panelists’ insight into leadership and mentoring gave us all perspective as we continue to grow and learn in these early stages of our professional lives.