University Leadership Forum to Focus on Multi-Generational Leadership

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 16, 2017) — With Generation Z in today's classrooms and entering the work force, the University of Kentucky — and colleges everywhere — are arriving at an unprecedented moment: five generations are navigating the university together.

That’s why the theme of this year’s University Leadership Forum will be “Leading Across Generations.” The forum is scheduled for Oct. 23-25, and all faculty, staff and graduate students are invited to attend as many sessions as their schedules allow.

Click here to register online.

The forum will explore the unique values of each generation. With a greater appreciation of generational influences on leadership, the university can hire the best faculty and staff, more effectively guide and motivate our students and more fully engage with the rich, diverse university community.

Each generation brings its unique set of values, methods, communication styles and shared experiences to the university. Fully understanding how each generation tends to see the world can help you lead effectively, no matter the makeup of your team. It can also help you identify what leadership qualities you can bring to any situation, regardless of your stage of career.

The forum begins Oct. 23 with a keynote address from Ryan Jenkins, an internationally recognized speaker who helps organizations gain clarity around generational differences. His address, “Next Generation Leadership: Proven Strategies to Engage a Multi-Generational Workforce,” will provide participants with:

• context on why generations matter;
• understanding of each generation’s perspective of leadership, communication, technology and work; and
• proven strategies for engaging a multi-generational workforce.

Dr. Tracy Sanson will deliver the closing keynote address. Sanson is an emergency physician who has served in leadership roles with the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine, the Council of Residency Directors and the American College of Emergency Physicians.

In addition to the keynote speakers, you can also hear from campus leaders, who will share their expertise and lead engaging panel discussions about generational influences on leadership.

Topics for panel sessions and roundtables include:

• Applicable leadership lessons from UK ROTC;
• UK's age demographics and what inspires and engages each generation;
• "The Art Space: Where Intergenerational Connection and Communication Happens";
• Multi-generational leadership in the STEM disciplines; and 
• "Mentoring faculty: The role of the department chair and assessing junior faculty needs."

Sessions will be held at convenient locations across campus including the Singletary Center for the Arts, Hilary J. Boone Center, Gatton College of Business and Economics and the UK Art Museum.