” Success is not achieved by winning all the time. Real success comes when we rise after we fall.”- Muhammad Ali
Effective Leadership
Effective leadership is the foundation to a successful workforce environment. Being a leader is the act of encouraging and guiding a team or individual to achieve a certain goal through direction and motivation. Having effective leadership can lead to not only positive influence, but also inspiration among team members.
Throughout my college career, I have had the privilege to have multiple leadership roles. I currently serve as the community service chair on the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) executive board. My role is to coordinate community service efforts for the council and to ensure that all NPHC events support the University and community. At the beginning of the school year, I had the privilege to host a back-to-school snack pack event. The National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations filled 100 bags with hygiene items and snacks that were distributed to the students on campus. This experience allowed me to serve a multifaced leadership role that encompassed many responsibilities, including organizing and coordinating the event, rallying support from volunteers, and overseeing the distribution process. I also have a leadership role in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. I serve as the homecoming chair where I am responsible for overseeing all activities within the sorority, including homecoming step show, volunteer opportunities, and collaborating with other organizations during homecoming week. The exposure to working with various groups, each with their own dynamics, needs, and perspectives, has been an invaluable learning opportunity. It has enhanced my communication skills and allowed me to convey ideas, goals, and expectations clearly.
All and all, these experiences have enhanced my leadership skills tremendously and have allowed me to guide and support a multitude of students. As a leader, not only have I aided in the advancement of the students I work with, but I have also grown personally and professionally.
Communication
Navigating the complexities of diverse student interactions often leads to misunderstandings. This underscores the critical role of effective communication in ensuring the seamless functioning of these organizations. Orchestrating the dynamics within a group of women, each exemplifying robust leadership skills has posed significant challenges. Numerous instances have arisen in my sorority where divergent ideas have sparked disagreements among members. Engaging in extensive discussions, I have consistently taken on the role of a mediator, guiding the group toward consensus and common ground.
For example, during homecoming week, we faced a decision between two outfit options for our step show: a sweatshirt emblazoned with “Homecoming 2023” and an Alpha Kappa Alpha sweatshirt. The homecoming sweatshirt was priced at $25, while the Alpha Kappa Alpha sweatshirt was $30. Half of the members leaned toward the homecoming sweatshirt, and the other half favored the Alpha Kappa Alpha option. In this situation, I assumed the role of a mediator, working to guide the group towards a consensus. After thoroughly considering both perspectives, I recommended the second option. I articulated my reasoning by explaining that, although the “Homecoming 2023” sweatshirt was more cost-effective, opting for the Alpha Kappa Alpha sweatshirt could serve multiple purposes, allowing us to wear them at future events, thus avoiding the need to purchase new outfits. This decision not only ensured a more cost-effective approach but also provided the organization with greater financial flexibility for upcoming events.
