Members of Leadership Tech cohort four completed the two-year program in April 2021 by presenting the results of their work on innovation projects designed to support the strategic plan of Arkansas Tech University.
The innovation projects are the focus of year two of the Leadership Tech program. Five teams consisting of Leadership Tech cohort four members presented their project concepts and results to an audience that included members of the ATU executive council.
“I want to congratulate each of you,” said Dr. Robin E. Bowen, ATU president, at the conclusion of the presentations. “You did great work and you are a very impressive group. Participation in Leadership Tech is a significant time commitment, and I appreciate your willingness to do that. I look forward to seeing your projects come to fruition.”
The presentations were made through distance technology as result of COVID-19 safety protocols.
Below are details about each of the Leadership Tech cohort four final projects and the names of the team members:
Project Title: Jerry’s Playground
Team Members: Meighan Burke, Dr. Judy Cezeaux, Dr. Shelly Daily, Brandie Gibbs, Luke Heffley and Dr. Guolin Yi
Facilitator: Dr. Shellie Hanna
Project Description: The creation of a fun, interactive outdoor area to engage students and encourage them to remain on campus. This space will also provide a well-ventilated area for social gatherings that maintain social distancing regulations during COVID-19.
Project Title: The Tech Outlet
Team Members: Dr. Jeff Bright, Dr. Newton Hilliard, Laura Rudolph and Thomas Strahan
Facilitator: Dr. Gina Kraft
Project Description: The creation of a faculty/staff lounge to address morale and disengagement of employees with the hope of improving employee satisfaction, and therefore, increasing retention.
Project Title: Regalia for All
Team Members: Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim, Charity Smith, Dr. Jordan Thibodeaux, Brandi Tripp and Karissa Webb
Facilitator: David Spicer
Project Description: Collaboration with Barnes and Nobles’ existing regalia rental services to more effectively communicate resources and provide a more affordable option to students and faculty at both the Russellville and Ozark campuses.
Project Title: Arkansas Tech Advocacy
Team Members: Sara Chronister, Ashley Golleher, Laura Palmer, Dr. Rockie Pederson, Dr. Jason Warnick and Dr. Matthew Young
Facilitator: Dr. Justin Killingsworth
Project Description: To create a web platform — www.atu.edu/advocate — and training program for students, faculty, staff and alumni so that interested individuals may effectively advocate for the university.
Project Title: Increase Faculty and Staff Retention
Team Members: Pam Cooper, Dr. Michael Davis, Dr. Jorista Garrie, Stacie Harden, Chris Moss and Felisha Weaver
Facilitator: Brent Etzel
Project Description: To gauge employee satisfaction and opportunities that the university can provide faculty and staff additional/better services in order to increase retention and satisfaction.
Dr. Mary B. Gunter, chief of staff in the ATU Office of the President, serves as chair of the Leadership Tech governing council.
For more information about Leadership Tech, visit www.atu.edu/leadershiptech.
