Innovative Collaboration: USC Welcomes MIC Institute of Technology Trainees for Experiential Learning
By Kadan Esson, Corporate Communications Assistant & Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In a groundbreaking move at the forefront of experiential education, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) has embarked on a transformative partnership with the MIC Institute of Technology. This dynamic collaboration signals a new era in academic-industry synergy, promising to revolutionize the landscape of vocational training and career readiness.
The collaboration between the MIC Institute of Technology and USC marks a significant milestone in the realm of experiential learning. Through the Multi-Sector Skills Training (MuST) Programme, fourteen masonry trainees have been welcomed to USC’s Main Campus for a five-month training period. Spearheaded by the MIC Institute of Technology, the MuST Programme aims to cultivate a pool of proficient, certified workers in key sectors of the economy.
Under the guidance of Mr. Lincoln Laltoo, Coordinator of the Department of Facilities Management at USC, these trainees are gaining hands-on experience in a real-world environment. Working alongside USC’s experienced staff, they are seamlessly integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application, enhancing their skill set and operational capacity.
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The MuST Programme’s emphasis on inclusivity aligns closely with USC’s commitment to student achievement and preparedness for future careers. By offering internship opportunities within its departments, USC is providing trainees with invaluable experiences and mentorship, ensuring they are equipped with the skills needed to succeed.
Speaking about their experiences at USC, the masonry trainees shared insights into their journey. Nathan Hinds expressed satisfaction in applying his interests in tiling, carpentry, and electrical work to the ongoing renovation of the University’s Barn, remarking, “It feels rewarding to contribute to campus improvements for future enjoyment.” Isaiah Rudder echoed this sentiment, finding fulfillment in utilizing his expertise in electrical, plumbing, welding, and tiling to contribute to the university community.
Through this partnership, trainees are not only gaining expertise in masonry but also acquiring a comprehensive skill set encompassing various aspects of general construction. From foam work, concrete mixing and pouring, plastering, tiling, ceiling work, joinery, electrical work, and plumbing, they are immersed in a diverse range of tasks, ensuring they graduate with practical skills highly sought after in the industry.
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Moreover, the collaboration extends beyond vocational training, encompassing holistic support for the trainees’ educational and personal advancement. USC provides access to resources such as the campus gym and student shuttle service, enhancing their overall well-being and efficiency.
As the partnership between MIC Institute of Technology and USC continues to evolve, the potential for innovation and impact is limitless. Together, they are shaping the future of education, empowering students to become lifelong learners, innovators, and leaders in their respective fields.
In conclusion, the collaboration between MIC Institute of Technology and USC exemplifies a transformative model of collaboration, innovation, and experiential learning. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, they are paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for trainees and the wider community alike.
- Published in News, Office of the President
USC’s KindHearted Thrift ‘N Valley Store Set to Relocate to New Campus Location
By Sharon De Freitas, Director of Business Development & Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
Amidst the lively ambiance of the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), where friendly chatter intertwines with the rhythm of bustling footsteps, a new chapter is about to unfold. In April 2023, the campus experience was enriched with the inauguration of the USC’s very own on-campus Thrift ‘N Valley Store, igniting a spirit of community and sustainability. Now, as the store celebrates its one-year anniversary, it prepares for a momentous relocation to a new, dedicated space within the university grounds.
Previously nestled within the confines of the USC Bookstore, the KindHearted Thrift ‘N Valley Store is poised to embark on a new journey in its very own location, formerly known as “The Barn”. This strategic move comes as a result of the store’s remarkable success and burgeoning growth over the past year.
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Piloted by visionary alumni and fueled by the unwavering support of donors, both locally and overseas, the USC Thrift ‘N Valley Store has become a beacon of philanthropy and community engagement. Generous contributions of time and resources from USC alumni and friends have played a pivotal role in the store’s evolution, embodying a spirit of dedication and commitment to the university’s mission.
With over $90,000.00 in sales generated to date, the Thrift ‘N Valley Store stands as a testament to USC’s commitment to educational excellence and holistic student development. All proceeds from the store are directed towards student scholarships or other projects specified by donors, furthering the university’s mandate to nurture the “head, heart, and hand” of its community.
Moreover, the store has provided invaluable opportunities for student involvement, offering job training, internships, and practical skill development that complement the academic journey of USC students. This holistic approach to education underscores USC’s dedication to preparing students for success beyond the classroom.
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As renovations are underway to transform the new 2000 plus square feet facility into a welcoming hub for shoppers and donors alike, anticipation builds within the USC community for the grand reopening of the KindHearted Thrift ‘N Valley Store at its new location. With its relocation, the store is poised to continue its legacy of fostering sustainability, supporting educational excellence, and empowering students to reach their fullest potential.
As the USC community eagerly awaits the unveiling of the revamped Thrift ‘N Valley Store, the spirit of philanthropy and camaraderie continues to thrive, echoing the university’s ethos of going beyond excellence in all endeavors.
- Published in News, Office of the President
University of the Southern Caribbean Invests in Farming Equipment for Economic Diversification
By Sharon De Freitas, Director of Business Development & Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) continues to make strides in its agricultural pursuits with the recent acquisition of several pieces of equipment aimed at enhancing its farming operations. Situated on the sprawling three hundred plus acre estate known as La Realista, nestled in the lush Maracas Valley, USC has embarked on a journey to leverage its natural resources for economic sustainability and academic enrichment.
Since its acquisition by the Seventh-day Adventist Church in 1927, La Realista has served as the heart of USC’s academic endeavors, accommodating over 1200 students amidst its tranquil and fertile surroundings. However, USC’s vision extends beyond nurturing the human mind; the institution is equally committed to cultivating the land it occupies.
In 2023, USC took a significant step towards diversifying its income streams by registering its estate with the Ministry of Agriculture’s farmers program, culminating in the issuance of a farmer’s license early that year. This pivotal development opened doors to government subsidies, grants, and technical support, empowering USC to expand its agricultural activities.
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Building upon this foundation, USC recently invested in several pieces of cutting-edge agricultural equipment, including a mulcher, drive-on grass cutter, and an electric utility vehicle.
The rationale behind these investments is straightforward: to leverage the abundant resources at USC’s disposal for sustainable agricultural practices. USC has embraced the ethos of cultivating not only the human mind but also the fertile lands it possesses. Just as plants require time, inputs, and effort to thrive, USC recognizes that nurturing ideas and initiatives demands similar dedication and resourcefulness.
Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of USC, has demonstrably emphasized the institution’s commitment to achieving financial sustainability through prudent investments and strategic initiatives. The acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment represents a significant step towards realizing this vision, as USC continues to explore innovative avenues for growth and development. The newly acquired equipment was dedicated on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 by Dr. Colwick Wilson – President, USC; Dr. Kern Tobias – President, CARU; Ps. Johnson Frederick – Executive Secretary, CARU; and Ps. Bertie Henry – Treasurer, CARU.
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With the cultivation of short crops such as cabbages, tomatoes, and patchoi already underway, USC’s agricultural endeavors are poised for further expansion and success. By harnessing the potential of its La Realista estate and embracing a holistic approach to sustainability, USC reaffirms its dedication to excellence in both academia and agriculture.
As USC forges ahead on its journey towards economic self-sufficiency, the acquisition of agricultural equipment stands as a testament to the institution’s resilience, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment to creating a brighter future for generations to come.
- Published in News, Office of the President
USC’s Food Sustainability Drive Blossoms Beyond the Farm: Tree-Planting Initiative Enhances Campus Experience
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In its ongoing commitment to food sustainability and environmental stewardship, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) has extended its initiatives beyond the confines of the USC Farm. On Friday, February 2, 2024, a notable tree-planting exercise spearheaded by Dr. Colwick Wilson, showcased USC’s dedication to fostering a sustainable campus ecosystem while enhancing the student experience.
The event marked the establishment of fruit trees in various locations around the Main Campus, symbolizing a tangible step towards integrating nature into daily campus life. With the vision that these trees will mature and bear fruits over time, USC students can look forward to the delightful prospect of picking and enjoying fresh fruits as part of their everyday campus experience.
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Dr. Wilson emphasized the dual purpose of the tree-planting exercise: promoting food sustainability and contributing to campus beautification. By strategically planting fruit trees across the Main Campus, USC not only aims to provide nutritious and locally sourced produce but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the university grounds, aligning with USC’s overarching strategic plan looking ahead to its centennial in 2027.
This tree-planting exercise underscores USC’s commitment to cultivating a culture of environmental consciousness and stewardship among its student body. By integrating food production into the campus landscape, USC fosters a deeper connection between students and their environment, promoting a sense of ownership and responsibility towards sustainable living practices.
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As the fruit trees take root and flourish in the coming years, USC anticipates a bountiful harvest that will not only nourish the body but also feed the spirit of community and collaboration. With each fruit harvested serving as a testament to USC’s dedication to sustainability, the university sets a shining example for institutions seeking to create vibrant and resilient campus environments.
Looking ahead, USC remains steadfast in its mission to explore innovative solutions for promoting food security, environmental sustainability, and student well-being. Through collaborative efforts and continued engagement with stakeholders, USC envisions a future where sustainability is not just a goal but a way of life ingrained in the fabric of campus culture.
As the fruits of this initiative ripen, USC invites students, faculty, and staff to partake in the journey towards a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future. Together, let us nurture the seeds of change and cultivate a campus environment where sustainability thrives and flourishes for generations to come.
- Published in News, Office of the President
Happy 50th Independence Anniversary Grenada!
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The University of the Southern Caribbean extends congratulations to the beautiful Spice Isle nation of Grenada on the grand occasion of its 50th Independence Anniversary!
As we join in celebrating this significant milestone, we reflect on the rich history and enduring connections between Grenada and our university. Our Grenadian students, faculty, staff and alumni contributes significantly to the USC community, embodying the spirit of excellence, resilience, and commitment to service.
We salute the people of Grenada for their achievements, progress, and vibrant culture. May this anniversary be a time of joy, reflection, and renewed dedication to the values that have shaped the nation’s remarkable journey.
We celebrate your accomplishments and look forward to witnessing your continued contributions to society.
May God bless you on this your golden jubilee.
Happy 50th Independence Anniversary Grenada!
- Published in Alumni, Corporate Communications, News, Office of the President
USC Leadership Academy’s Second Session Explores “Leadership Stories” in Higher Education: Fostering Visionary Leadership for a Transformative Future
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) continues to spearhead initiatives aimed at fostering leadership excellence within its academic community and beyond. On Friday, January 19, 2024, the USC Leadership Academy (USCLA) hosted its second session, themed “Leadership Stories,” featuring insightful presentations from distinguished leaders in the field of higher education in Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean region.
USCLA, designed to cultivate ethical, visionary, and transformational leaders, targets key figures such as Administrators, Deans, Chairs, Directors, and Coordinators crucial to USC’s success. The academy combines theoretical foundations with experiential learning, aligning with the university’s mission, vision, and overarching objectives.
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Leadership Insights from Dr. Keith Nurse:
Dr. Keith Nurse, President of the College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago (COSTAATT), shared profound insights into the challenges and opportunities within the realm of higher education. His presentation commenced with a focus on Government expenditure on education, followed by a detailed analysis of tertiary education spending. One key takeaway from Dr. Nurse’s presentation was his emphasis on the importance of continuous progress.
“If you are in a steady state, you are actually in reverse,” he asserted. The presentation delved into the expenditure on Research and Development (R&D) from 2011-2020, with a particular emphasis on Latin American countries. Dr. Nurse stressed the significance of pushing the boundaries of knowledge, stating, “The capacity to catch up becomes more difficult the further behind you are.”
The presentation concluded with a reminder of the richness of educational institutions and the imperative for a strategic approach to utilize this richness effectively.
Leadership Wisdom from Professor Prakash Persad:
Professor Prakash Persad, President of the University of Trinidad and Tobago, offered valuable insights into leadership, emphasizing the crucial quality of listening. His presentation centered on the challenges impacting higher education and the leadership required to address these issues.
“A good leader listens,” Professor Persad declared, highlighting the importance of understanding and responding to the concerns and needs of the academic community.
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His presentation contributed to a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted landscape of higher education leadership. He echoed Dr. Keith Nurse’s assertion regarding the urgency of addressing the gap in education, emphasizing the need for proactive measures.
Addressing current challenges in higher education, Professor Persad advocated for a practical approach to education, emphasizing technical vocational training and industry integration. He stressed the qualities of honesty, care, and selflessness in leadership, highlighting the importance of serving others.
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Embracing Innovation and Change: Insights from Mr. Durey Arthur
In a reflection of the evolving landscape of leadership, Mr. Durey Arthur shared insights from his dynamic journey over the past 25 years. His presentation focused on the resistance to technological shifts among leaders in Trinidad and Tobago, advocating for the embracing of innovation. Mr. Arthur highlighted his contributions, including introducing holograms to official documents, and discussed ongoing projects addressing crime.
Expressing frustration at the lack of local engineering support for imaginative ideas, he emphasized the importance of embracing change and rejecting complacency.
Acknowledging his mother’s influence on his leadership journey, Mr. Arthur expressed gratitude and shared how challenges, such as being fired from USC, led him to give back to the institution. His inspirational conclusion centered on the question, “What if?” driving innovation and progress.
Recognizing Leadership Excellence
The session also featured the presentation of awards by Dr. Barbara Reynolds, Vice President for Administration, Advancement, and Planning. A significant moment unfolded as Mr. Durey Arthur received an award and graciously dedicated it to his wife, Mrs. Leslie-Marie Arthur, recognizing her pivotal role in their shared success.
Dr. Reynolds emphasized the significance of celebrating Caribbean male figures who excel in their endeavors.
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Her remarks echoed sentiments shared by the speakers, underscoring the importance of research for regional development and progress.
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The USC Leadership Academy’s second session, “Leadership Stories,” not only exemplifies the university’s commitment to leadership development but also reinforces its dedication to forming impactful partnerships that contribute to the growth and progress of the Caribbean region.
As USC continues to invest in leadership excellence through initiatives like USCLA, the university remains at the forefront of shaping leaders who inspire, innovate, and drive positive change. Leadership matters at USC, and the investment in leadership development reflects the institution’s dedication to shaping a brighter future.
View full photo album on Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/usctt/albums/72177720314493138/
- Published in News, Office of the President
Saturday’s Child Becoming: A Literary Exploration of Purpose and Evolution
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
On Monday, January 15, 2024, Mrs. Carol Daniel, wife of Dr. Eugene Daniel, proudly presented her husband’s latest literary achievement to Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC). The book titled, “Saturday’s Child Becoming: Where Life Meets Growth Learning Thought and Service,” promises readers a profound journey into the realms of personal growth, purpose, and the interconnectedness of life’s experiences.
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Dr. Eugene Daniel, a distinguished figure who previously served as President of the Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of the Southern Caribbean, delves into the intricate tapestry of his own life and experiences.
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As a septuagenarian, Dr. Daniel draws upon his extensive background as a director, administrator, pastor, and educator to illuminate the pages of his book with rich anecdotes and insights. Through the lens of Clement Silston’s mission, the author navigates the landscape of his personal evolution, inviting readers to reflect on the profound impact of freedom, responsibility, and the pursuit of purpose.
To ensure that the USC community can access this intellectual treasure, two copies of “Saturday’s Child Becoming” have found a home at the Forde Library. This thoughtful gesture ensures that students, faculty, and staff alike have the opportunity to delve into the profound insights shared by Dr. Eugene Daniel.
In conclusion, “Saturday’s Child Becoming” stands as a testament to a life well-lived and an exploration of the universal themes that connect us all. Dr. Eugene Daniel’s latest literary contribution adds another layer to the intellectual richness of the USC community, offering a timeless source of inspiration and reflection for those seeking meaning and purpose in their own journeys.
- Published in News, Office of the President
Leadership Matters: Jesus The Quintessential Leader
Editor’s Foreword
In this Holiday Season, we are privileged to present to you the second feature article of our leadership series – Leadership Matters. This article was written by the Antiguan-born Dr. Eugene F. Daniel. Dr. Daniel, before his retirement, served as an outstanding pastor, theologian and denominational administrator. He is a former President of the Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and in this capacity he served as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of the Southern Caribbean, his alma mater during the critical period of its transition to university status. Dr. Daniel is also an author who very recently published a book entitled Saturday’s Child Becoming: Where Life Meets Growth Learning Thought and Service (available on amazon.com).
As we celebrate Christmas with its almost inescapable sensory appeals – its food, music, decorations, olfactory delights the warmth of the love of family and friends and all else that engenders joy and goodwill, may we never forget that in our low estate God chose to be with us, to be one of us so that we could be with Him. No greater example of leadership can ever be found – Emmanuel!
Happy holidays and God’s richest blessings for the coming year.
Jesus: The Quintessential Leader
When we consider leadership in human affairs, a crucial inquiry arises: Which individuals have the qualities to effectively perform this significant role? Answering this question incorrectly can have far-reaching ramifications, leading to serious consequences such as bankruptcy, conflict, military defeat, economic decline, and even the downfall of nations. Therefore, organizations should engage in thoughtful decision-making and allocate sufficient resources to gather and analyze data, enabling them to make informed decisions in appointing persons to lead.
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The University of the Southern Caribbean recognizes the importance of leadership as a valuable skill, and this essay serves as a meaningful contribution to the ongoing discussion. USC’s primary aim is to instill and nurture strong leadership capabilities in every learner because leadership matters. This essay offers readers a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics that inform leadership from above, or within organizations.
We begin our conversation by defining the term ‘leadership’ and thereafter explore the various roles and responsibilities we task leaders with. These aspects are indispensable for the triumph of an organization. Without a clear understanding of the role and responsibilities of a leader, any organization risks its proficiency in achieving desired outcomes. This proficiency goes beyond just having expertise; it also involves the capacity to inspire, motivate, and influence others toward a shared goal.
A successful leader learns and develops leadership skills. The ideal candidate for this leading role should demonstrate the skill of self-awareness, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and be open to receiving feedback from their team. Cultivating an environment that fosters a feeling of security is part of their responsibility—empowering individuals to explore new avenues and courageously embrace diverse ideas and perspectives.
One of the major factors that determines the effectiveness of a leader, as discussed in the leadership literature, is their capability to prioritize the needs of others above their own. This approach gives priority to key elements, such as humility, service, empowerment, and sacrifice. Dedicated leaders create an inclusive and empowering work environment and prioritize serving their team, making sure that each individual feels valued and motivated to contribute through their unique talents.
Over the years, I have been involved in the discipline of leading and developing leaders with the craft and will to effect change. Sometimes I voiced the view that a leader in an organization is not necessarily the person with the title. Many times, the leader is the individual asking and answering the important questions relevant to organizational success.
In discussions about leadership styles and types, especially those based on positions or functions, we frequently find it effortless to navigate through them. This is because we inherently associate leadership with a hierarchy. We develop leadership theories to facilitate this, whether we are discussing democratic, autocratic, or transformational frameworks which we develop to produce efficiency toward ends.
While titles can be influential in earning respect and establishing authority, true leadership is ultimately determined by one’s actions and qualities, rather than by simply holding a position. I will now elaborate on the rationale behind this statement.
The essence of genuine leadership lies in the skill of influencing others. Leaders possess the talent to bring individuals together, motivate them to pursue a shared task, cultivate collaboration, and empower them to make their best contributions. If one wants to excel in this, it is necessary to have effective communication skills and unfeigned empathy.
As mentioned earlier, organizations delegate power to individuals to make decisions, allocate resources, and hold others accountable. However, this authority alone doesn’t guarantee effective leadership, for a title can signal experience and expertise, leading to a natural deference from others. However, leaders must consistently show their commitment to earning and maintaining respect through their leadership actions.
Hierarchical Leadership
While some individuals may exploit their titles to exert control or manipulate others, we should note that such behaviors do not align with the principles of authentic leadership. The significance of it remains the same, whether this occurs in a democratic, autocratic, or transformational manner.
The hierarchical leadership approach, known for its longstanding history, has gained widespread adoption among various organizations. The pyramid structure is commonly used to symbolize the flow of power and authority, with the top being the source and the bottom receiving it. It has its strengths and weaknesses, and understanding both is crucial for making informed decisions about leadership style.
Unfortunately, the abuse of hierarchical leadership is a recurring issue in many organizations and institutions, despite the benefits of efficiency. When individuals who hold positions of power engage in the inappropriate use of their authority, they create situations where those under their control become targets of exploitation, harm, or manipulation. There are multiple ways in which this can manifest, not limited to:
- Verbal abuse: This can involve yelling, insulting, belittling, or threatening subordinates. The creation of a hostile work environment poses a serious threat to the mental and emotional well-being of employees, as well as the overall health of the organization.
- Micromanagement: This involves excessive control over employees’ work, often to the point of stifling creativity and initiative. The potential consequences of feeling demoralized are twofold: not only can it have a detrimental effect on one’s morale, but it can also result in a decrease in productivity.
- Favoritism and unfair treatment: A variety of factors can contribute to this, including discrimination and unequal advancement opportunities. When there are injustices in the workplace, it can weaken employee morale. This can also lead to a decrease in productivity, as employees may feel undervalued or discouraged.
- Withholding information: Leaders keep important information or decisions secret from their employees. Unfortunately, when leaders conceal information, it leads to the development of organizational distrust.
When individuals abuse hierarchical leadership, the consequences can be quite severe, affecting not only individuals but also organizations. This harms various aspects of the workplace, including decreased productivity, increased employee turnover, higher rates of absenteeism, and the potential for legal action. It also creates a toxic work culture that stifles creativity, innovation, and collaboration.
Leadership theories, particularly those that address ethics and integrity, aim to prevent the misuse of power and positions of authority by proposing proactive measures. Ultimately, leadership is not about titles, position, privilege, and power; it’s about the impact on the prosperity, longevity, and well-being of people and organizations.
Relational Leadership
Leadership matters because it cultivates an environment of trust and respect. Through their commitment to fairness, honesty, and reliability, genuine leaders foster a strong bond of loyalty and support with their team. These leaders commit themselves to driving progress, overcoming challenges, and keeping their promises.
Wilfred Drath et al. (2008) argue that the conventional definition of leadership is becoming less effective. The past emphasis on leaders, followers, and shared goals is diminishing in its ability to explain the nature of leadership. Their integrated theory of leadership from within states: leadership is about direction, alignment, and commitment. Drath proposed a unique perspective on leadership, known as relational leadership theory. He challenges the traditional notion of leadership as solely residing in individuals and instead emphasizes the dynamic interplay as the true source of leadership.
Direction is the shared desired outcomes and collective agreement on vision, mission, goals, and aims to facilitate change from current reality towards a future state.
Alignment refers to the process of configuring organizational structures, skills, processes, performance management systems, governance, and technology to move the organization toward its desired future direction.
The ultimate result of commitment is the ability to inspire individuals to willingly dedicate their time and energy towards the advancement of a common aim. By shifting the focus of the conversation, organizations can address the subject of leadership by emphasizing the production of three outcomes: direction, alignment, and commitment.
The core tenets of Drath’s relational leadership theory are:
- The essence of leadership does not lie in one person at the forefront, issuing instructions, but it is a collective achievement.
- Systems create leaders, as leadership qualities are not innate attributes, but emerge through active participation in interpersonal dynamics within a group.
Drath’s theory provides a wealth of valuable insights that can enhance our understanding and application of leadership principles. By engaging in relational dialogue characterized by open, honest, and respectful communication, individuals establish trust, foster understanding, and develop a collective sense of purpose. This enables them to collaborate effectively toward the attainment of shared objectives.
The nature of leadership is not static but contingent upon the context in which it occurs. The exact styles and ways of leading will inevitably differ based on many factors, such as the specific circumstances, the individuals involved, and the unique obstacles being encountered.
Drath’s theory shifts the attention from individuals to integrative connections. By recognizing the significance of collaboration and open communication, organizations can foster leadership practices that are more cooperative and inclusive.
Despite its optimism, the relational theory has not been exempt from critique, with several valid counterarguments raised against it.
The emphasis on relationships and context can create ambiguity when trying to determine the actual leader or person responsible. Hence, transitioning from traditional hierarchical models to relational leadership practices poses significant challenges for organizations and individuals familiar with top-down approaches.
Notwithstanding these criticisms, Drath’s relational leadership theory has garnered attention in leadership practice. The focus on collaboration, communication, and shared purpose reflects the complexity and interconnectivity of the workplace. Individuals and organizations can foster more meaningful forms of leadership by understanding and applying the principles of relational leadership.
Descending or Servant Leadership
Throughout history, countless individuals demonstrated remarkable leadership abilities beyond the above and within styles. However, no one has done it more perfectly than Jesus Christ. Regardless of one’s profession or background, leaders can look to his life and teachings as a timeless guide. How did Jesus display leadership superior to the top-down and within principles?
The leadership literature uses engaging theories to categorize the skills and personal requirements that seminars, workshops, and conferences aim to inspire. Yet flaws and failures marred the landscape of leadership, casting a shadow over attempts at leading—read about the scandal in highly supposedly prestigious organizations. Despite the efforts, none of the theoretical models of organizational examples presented generated a flawless model.
Dr. Stanley Patterson, a renowned leadership professor at Andrews University, researched the existing hierarchical leadership environment and delineated two distinct leadership styles: the Ascendant/Positional and the Incarnational/Descending. Patterson located the ascending leadership style in the biblical narrative of Isaiah 14:3-11, which prophesied the ascent and decline of the King of Babylon. Isaiah 14:12-21 presents a symbolic drama of Lucifer’s rise and fall. The phrase “I will” conveyed the desire for dominance and superiority.
Lucifer’s self-centered hierarchical struggle for preeminence and power would destroy anyone who stood in his path to the top, including God himself. Lucifer’s ambitious endeavor to climb the pyramid ended in disappointment as he failed to reach the summit. Instead of his original goal of attaining power, destruction became his end.
Leadership in the secular context often connotes power, authority, influence, and financial advantage. Ambitious individuals use various tactics, such as manipulating power dynamics, issuing threats, and employing subterfuge, to rise to the highest levels of power. When examining these traits side by side, it becomes apparent that the life and teachings of Jesus Christ are opposites.
Matthew’s gospel details Jesus’ indictment of a leader’s self-indulgent desire to ascend (Matthew 20:25-27). A person’s egocentric ascendancy of the hierarchical model of leadership is incompatible with the Incarnational or Christ-centered descendant framework as presented in the Biblical record. Jesus, rather than engaging in an ascendant design of leadership behavior, stepped down from His exalted state of being and emptied himself (Phil 2:7).
The Savior avoided status, rank, and privilege—for which modern leaders strive. Rather, He divested himself of His position to become a servant. The descendant model raised the requirements for Christian leadership, especially the genre proposed by the University of the Southern Caribbean. Jesus dismantled the hierarchical model and exceeded Drath’s relationship proposal with “I am among you as one who serves.”
I proffer that Jesus’ quintessential leadership integrates the hierarchical, relational, and servant by its emotive directive. Power, position, and privilege are not ends in themselves. These are the means to achieve the building up of people and organizations. This was the message delivered in that upper room by the God-man. In his account, John recounts how Jesus, during supper, made a significant gesture to model to his disciples the true essence of leadership. This object lesson involved Jesus getting up from the table and using a basin and a towel, teaching the importance of humble service over the pursuit of power.
Jesus, despite His divine status as the Son of God, exhibited remarkable humility by not seeking positions of authority or power. Through the embrace of a life of simplicity, He maintained a constant connection with and showed empathy towards those whom society marginalized and excluded. He showed humility by washing the feet of His disciples, a task typically reserved for the lowest servants. By performing this act, He taught his followers that true leadership involves selflessly serving others, making it a powerful object lesson in leadership.
He proclaimed, I your Lord and Master have given you an example to follow in my steps. The following day at noon, He humbled himself to be nailed to a tree. Paul asserts that Christ, One who is equal to God, took on the likeness of a sinful man willingly. The God-man took on the appearance of a man (as leader), and in doing so humbled Himself and obeyed until death, even death on a cross (Philippians 2:7-8 NKJV).
Jesus, in performing that act, demonstrated the qualities of divine leadership. The act inverted the hierarchical pyramid and introduced a new leadership principle for which there are few takers—leadership means sacrifice.
To paraphrase James Allen Francis from his 1926 sermon, One Solitary Life: Twenty centuries have come and gone and today He is the epitome of leadership. I am well within the mark when I say that all the generals that ever marched, all the captains that ever sailed, all the politicians that ever sat, all the kings that reigned—put together—have not affected the cause of leadership on this earth as much as Jesus, the Quintessential Leader.
When we take the time to analyze Jesus’ leadership, we discover valuable lessons that are deserving of our attention:
- True leadership surpasses the mere pursuit of power or control; it entails motivating and directing others toward a collective goal.
- Exemplary leaders exhibit selflessness and humility by prioritizing the needs of others above their own.
- Leaders actively promote a collaborative and innovative culture to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute and gain awards. They focus on developing the skills and talents of the team to sustain success.
- Leaders understand that sacrifice is necessary to achieve a greater good.
Jesus is the Leader who sits situationally above, within, or below. Which alternative will ultimately define the practice that we prefer? By embracing Jesus’ mandate, individuals can develop and enhance their leadership skills, thereby creating a meaningful and influential impact on both their organization and the global community.
Eugene F. Daniel
Retired
- Published in News, Office of the President