Conversation-Series HERO

Valpo LEAD’s – Leadership Education Across Departments

The Valpo LEAD’s program is a year-long professional development program for aspiring leaders from across the institution who wish to learn more about themselves, the University, and the current opportunities and challenges facing higher education in the United States. Through participation in this program, participants will learn about the context of Lutheran Higher Education, what that means for Valparaiso University, and how that fits into the broader context of higher education in the United States. Participants will have the opportunity to develop their personal leadership skills that can be used in formal and informal roles, and practices through the completion of a campus-based project. Additionally, this program is intended to introduce participants to a wide array of interconnected functions that allow a modern University to function.

Goals of VALPO LEADS program:

The Valpo Leadership Education Across Departments Program will provide participants with the following:

  • Reflection on personal and professional values and vocations
  • Discussion of strengths and talents in light of the world and University’s needs
  • Understanding of the pillars of Lutheran Higher Education – seek truth, cultivate generosity and hospitality, foster academic excellence, inspire service, provide hope
  • Overview of Valparaiso University and the interrelatedness of Valpo departments
  • Insight into the complexities of leadership within the current environment of Higher Education
  • Increased sense of community
  • Monthly mentoring sessions based on confidentiality and trust

Expectations of VALPO LEADS Program Participants

  • Attend and actively participate in Valpo LEAD’s meetings and activities
  • Complete all pre-work, homework, and learning project assignments
  • Present learning project at the final Valpo LEAD’s session
  • Use what is learned in the Valpo LEAD’s program to benefit your department/college and the University
  • Participate in the evaluation of the Valpo LEAD’s program and provide information and suggestions regarding how to make the program even more valuable and rewarding
  • Market the benefits of Valpo LEAD’s to other potential program participants