Millennium Leadership Initiative

 

A couple of weeks ago I was privileged to serve as the closing speaker for the 2014 Millennium Leadership Initiative, a program sponsored by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities for persons seeking senior level administrative positions. The program targets women and people of color. I completed MLI in 2002, and have always said it was the BEST professional development experience I have ever had.

 

I focused my remarks on "To Be... or to Do," the point being that people have to decide whether they want to be a president, or if they want to do the job. These are very different things and so many people struggle because they wanted to be and not do. So I tried to give the group some considerations when going through a presidential search process so they would be able to determine if the position is a good fit.

 

One of my closing points was for them to know that they have no control over whether or not they become a president. So they should find a job they really love doing and do it exceptionally well.

 

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I Love This Show!

You can watch as we discussed UNCF and the Koch Bros. Click the photo.

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UNCF President Talks Better Futures Campaign and HBCUs Financial Crisis

UNCF President Talks Better Futures Campaign and HBCUs Financial Crisis#.U43g6HWO8eA.twitter

Post-commencement reality check

I've noticed a number of schools this year recognized graduates posthumously. We were no different. In January we lost graduating senior Davetta Williams, a single parent who had law school aspirations (and LSAT scores to make it a reality). A strange allergic reaction and delayed 911 response ended her life. Hers was the 3rd student funeral I've attended in my 2 years at Dillard.

So her mom and dad accepted the degree for her at commencement. It was definitely a tough day for them, but her mom called me last week just to share their appreciation. The entire Dillard community really rallied behind the family, raising a significant amount of money to help with expenses for Davetta's daughter.

We should continue to keep them in our prayers.

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Reason #1 NOT to ban selfies at commencement

You might miss an iconic moment...

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AIn't Misbehavin

 

 

Come out next week to attend our pre-commencement benefit performance which will support scholarships for Dillard students. For more information, contact Marcel McGee at (504) 816-4696. Tickets are $45.

Vote for Miss Dillard

Vote for Amber Trammel to be one of the Ebony HBCU Campus Queens. You can vote as many times as you'd like.

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