The School of Leadership Studies would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Laurie Koch on the completion of a Master’s Thesis titled, Empowering Leadership: A Participatory Inquiry into Enhancing Leader Self-Efficacy at M.O.S.A.I.C.
This thesis is available through RRU’s library.
We asked Laurie a few questions about this research and this is what they said:
What are some key takeaways from your thesis that would be helpful for other leaders?
Communication matters. My research on leader self-efficacy uncovered a total of 25 recommendations derived directly from leaders. However, at the very core of it all, many of the barriers and challenges that staff experience could be resolved by clear, transparent communication at all levels. Knowledge is power, and sharing knowledge, context and resources can only empower staff, leaders, and organizations. When it comes down to it, taking the time to connect, listen and share feedback actively and openly is the first step to opening many doors and possibilities as a leader, as a team and as a community member.
How is the organization moving change forward based on your work?
My organization has been very supportive with moving change forward based on my work. Conversations began once the research stage was completed with not only the CEO, but the executive team where we discussed the priority and feasibility of the recommendations at length. A 4-hour follow-up meeting was then held with all MOSAIC leaders (approximately 80 of them) to review each recommendation and discuss next steps. A manager’s working group was then implemented to keep the momentum going and ensure the changes are made.
What surprised you about your experience of the thesis process?
If we are talking about the thesis process itself, I was surprised at how quickly it flew by. I was also blown away by how supportive, kind and compassionate my thesis committee was. In residency, when they tell you that they are here to support you and want you to succeed, it was undeniable once I started working on my thesis that they meant it. Your committee is there to provide the support in whatever capacity is required. In my case, it was needing the space to work through the thesis without many check-ins, and they respected my decision and trusted that I was doing what I said I was. RRU instructors and professors are a reflection of leadership in action. They listen, support and cheer you on.
How are you applying lessons learned from your whole MA-Leadership journey?
“Lead with love” is something that has stuck with me. You can have difficult conversations and differences in opinions, but treating others with love, kindness and compassion throughout those speed bumps is a key component of leadership. We are all human, we all make mistakes and we all have the right to be listened to and treated with dignity.
Also, I learned that I am not alone. Your cohort cares about you, and they will help carry you in your darkest moments. Reach out to them. We are all in this together- a large interconnected system. We are one.