Leading by Example

Martha Abell, dean of the College of Science and Mathematics at Georgia Southern, and Ale Kennedy, the interim associate vice president for Human Resources graduated from the University System of Georgia’s (USG) Executive Leadership Institute (ELI). The eight-month development program provides faculty and staff with the opportunity to hone their leadership skills and prepare for high-level career advancement.

The President’s Cabinet selected Abell and Kennedy to represent Georgia Southern for the 2013-2014 program that featured group-learning formats, independent study, teleconferences and job shadowing.

“The curriculum was insightful and the program offered outstanding experiences, including having dinner and a panel discussion with several USG Presidents, forming close-knit, cross-mentoring groups with other ELI Scholars and having an outstanding job shadowing experience here at Georgia Southern with Chief Information Officer Steve Burrell,” said Abell.

Participants must satisfy the following eligibility requirements to be considered:

• Employment for a minimum of three years in higher education
• Consecutive positive evaluation ratings for the last three years
• Demonstrated potential based on the USG leadership competencies
• Minimum master’s degree and any other qualifications required for the next level position
• A current title of Vice President, Chair, Dean, Executive Director (or equivalent) and higher

“The assigned cross-mentoring groups provided each scholar an opportunity to meet and interact with leaders from other USG institutions and also provided many opportunities to diagnose problems and share solutions with capable peers,” said Kennedy.

The two were among 49 other ELI program members who completed the program and were honored for their accomplishments at an awards luncheon held at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville.