Exploring opportunities for growth with the UF Academy
Lesa Phillips, community relations specialist in the Office of Government and Community Relations, has always valued education and taken advantage of opportunities to learn and grow. After learning about the UF Academy from past participants, Phillips decided to join the program — an experience which helped her improve her communication skills and develop her natural skill set at work.
Read on to learn more about the impact the UF Academy had on Phillips’ professional journey.
Tell us about your professional journey and how you came to be in your current position at the University of Florida.
My love of education has allowed me to dedicate my entire professional career to the field employed in various roles. After working over 15 years with the School Board of Broward County and 11 years in student affairs at a private university, I transitioned to the University of Florida eight years ago. It was a huge learning curve and so incredibly amazing. The training classes offered by the UFHR Training and Organizational Development department have been a key factor in learning about the university, the culture and how to best serve the Gator Nation. I can honestly say that this institution has offered the most employee development training I have ever encountered in my career. I started with limited information and have gained so much knowledge through these programs that have helped my progression to my current role.
What motivated you to participate in the UF Academy?
I wanted to know how I could grow as a leader on campus, and what better way than to engage with our experienced leaders. This is an extraordinary opportunity that combines classroom instruction from our knowledgeable UFHR Training and Organizational Development team with experiential learning from our campus leaders that have been successful in their roles. Before I made the decision to participate in the UF Academy, I reached out to past participants to get their perspectives and experiences. The participants shared that they stayed in touch with their cohorts and formed professional connections and friendships over the years. They also shared how it impacted them professionally and personally.
How has the UF Academy impacted you at a professional and, if applicable, personal level?
Throughout the program, I learned valuable skills and was able to challenge myself in ways I had not considered before. I had meaningful discussions with our trainers and cohort throughout the program, which allowed me to actively think through how I was performing my job, how I could improve and explore campus collaborations in ways that I did consider previously. The UF Academy paired us with a partner throughout the program, which was great. I learned so much from my program partner and really loved the personal interaction and exploration that it brought.
Are there specific resources or connections you made during the program that you found most valuable and why?
I really enjoyed the opportunity to shadow in my department of interest that I have always wanted more insight about. I had an amazing experience, and the team leader allowed me to sit in on a staff meeting, prepared meaningful content that answered my questions and was really engaging in our one-on-one conversations. I really enjoyed my cohort and we have maintained contact since the conclusion of the program.
How have you applied what you learned in this program in your role as a leader?
I have learned that there are so many ways to serve the Gator Nation using my natural skill set. Having interviews with various campus leaders really allowed me to see how they utilized their unique skill sets in ways that flowed naturally for them. Seven months after the completion of the program, I transitioned into a role that allowed me to utilize my intrinsic attributes seamlessly. I now encourage others to explore all the resources offered to them at UF, my communication skills have improved and I am an advocate for practicing work-life balance.
What would you tell a colleague who is considering applying to this program?
Do not hesitate, apply now! This is a unique opportunity to not only learn but to hear first-hand from leaders with various backgrounds. The length of the program, assignments, discussions and your time investment with your cohort is invaluable. During each month of the program, you can apply what you have learned immediately and get feedback from your peers and UFHR coaches. You will thank yourself for participating in this unique opportunity!
Applications for the UF Academy are being accepted now through May 6.
Visit the UF Academy website to learn more about the program.