The Washburn Supervisor Essentials Program is a series of workshops which address topics considered essential to any employee in a supervisory role, regardless of area or level. This series is designed for Washburn University supervisors to acquire the knowledge necessary to effectively administer the policies, procedures and guidelines relative to their department or unit. This program will also address the supervisor's role and responsibilities in the development of their teams as individual contributors to the future of Washburn University.

Scheduled classes are to be held in MO202.

Continuous Performance Management

FEBRUARY 19-3:15-5:00
Continuous Performance Management is a modern approach to employee evaluation that focuses on helping your team members grow, improve and take charge of their own development.  In a culture of continuous performance management, feedback isn’t just about annual reviews, but is given in real time, scheduled 1:1’s and consists of both praise and constructive feedback. This interactive session will assist leaders at all levels develop their own culture of continuous feedback.

(Dena Brake, Talent Engagement & Development Partner)

Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership

MARCH 26-3:15-5:00
If you want to be a leader who develops, guides and inspires their team members to be and do their best, it’s imperative that you grow your Emotional Intelligence. (EQ) EQ proves to be, at least, 3 times more impactful in leading people than technical ability and IQ. (Harvard Business Review) In this session an assessment will be given which ranks your EQ score in all 4 pillars.  Finally, you will learn ways to improve your EQ and avoid EQ hijacking!  

(Dena Brake, Talent Engagement & Development Partner)

Human Resources Essentials for Leaders

APRIL 16-3:15-5:00
This session ensures that supervisors receive knowledge and skills for effective day-to-day decision making and action. The goal is to safeguard that laws and university policies are uniformly applied across departments and units.  While promoting positive team member relations, leaders will prevent or limit risk to the University.   ADA, FMLA & HIPAA, FLSA and Worker’s Compensation.

(Teresa Lee, Assistant Vice President HR)

Effective Hiring Practices and Onboarding

MAY 14-3:15-5:00
Bringing new team members on board can be a challenge to navigate, but if done effectively, it is an exciting opportunity for both the new team members and the organization.  From the application process, to interview procedures, and onboarding this session will provide an easy-to-follow checklist to assist in ensuring Washburn University continues to be the employer of choice!

(Dena Brake, Talent Engagement & Development Partner)

Navigating Difficult Conversations

JUNE 18-3:15-5:00
Somewhere in your life, it’s likely you heard the phrase “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” In leadership, however, it’s necessary to share praise as well as constructive feedback.  Doing so shows your investment in your team members.  But those conversations can be difficult.  This session will explore why this is so difficult, share effective methods for successfully having the difficult discussion, as well as scenarios for you to practice your skills.

(Kate Burns, Organizational Development Consultant)

KNOW Team Building, KNOW Effective Team—NO Team Building, NO Effective Team

JULY 17-3:15-5:00
“The strength of the team is each member.  The strength of each member is the team.”-Phil Jackson

Team building is an activity or process designed to help build connections between members of a team, create lasting bonds, and enable better teamwork and working practices.  Team building activities might include holding group discussions, running team games, or simply an outing together to create lasting memories. In this session we will discuss the importance of team building and share ideas on effective team building activities.  If you want to improve your team’s communication, creativity, while reducing silos and conflict this is the session to attend!

A list of On Demand Team Building training courses will be provided with instructions on how to schedule.  

(Dena Brake, Talent Engagement & Development Partner)

Washburn Leadership

August TBD 2025
Join President Mazechek as she walks new leaders through the importance of leadership at WU, including what we stand for and how your role, as a leader, is critical to ensure the University upholds its Mission, Vision, and Core Values.

After spending time with Dr. Mazechek, you will have the unique opportunity to work on developing your Leadership Brand with Dena Brake, Talent Engagement & Development Partner.

(Dr. Mazachek, WU President & Dena Brake, Talent Engagement & Development Partner)

More to come….

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