Chloe Ellis of Russellville and Bicky Payne of Pearcy became the first two individuals to earn the Arkansas Tech University Master of Arts degree in organizational leadership and learning at the conclusion of the fall 2024 semester.
Approved by the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board in May 2023, the degree program provides instruction in training and organizational development, organizational management and leadership, globalization and diversity, project management, organizational change, budgeting, implementation and assessment.
“I really want to work with people and I like to help people,” said Ellis, who previously earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from ATU. “The biggest highlight of this program is how hands-on it is, even though it is an online program. All of the projects I did…I would not have imagined the things I have done. I did not know I could do that. The professors and my advisor have been so amazing throughout this whole process. I truly do not think I could have done it without them.”
According to information in the program proposal, the ATU Master of Arts degree in organizational leadership and learning curriculum allows students to “develop effective leadership at all organizational levels, manage teams, make strategic decisions, design and evaluate organizational training and development as well as communicate effectively in diverse professional settings.”
Payne chose the program because it offered a practical approach to developing leadership skills. It helped her build upon the knowledge she gained while earning the ATU Bachelor of Arts degree in organizational leadership.
“The program aligns with my passion for fostering growth in organizations and my desire to make a meaningful impact in my current field as a qualified behavioral health provider,” said Payne, who is employed at Methodist Family Health Counseling Service. “ATU’s strong reputation and flexible program design also appealed to me as a working professional.
“One of the highlights has been the collaborative learning environment,” continued Payne. “Working with classmates from diverse professional backgrounds has broadened my perspective on leadership challenges and solutions. Additionally, applying the concepts I’ve learned to real-world projects…like creating interventions for mental health clients…has been incredibly rewarding. The mentorship and feedback from faculty have also been instrumental in my growth.”
Ellis also found that the opportunity to apply what she learned made a big difference.
“We had tests, but it was more than taking tests and answering questions,” said Ellis. “The knowledge I was gaining was applied to every project I did, and that is what makes you learn. When you have to apply something, that’s when you realize you can actually do it.”
Ellis serves as director of community engagement and impact at Ozark Rape Crisis Center in Russellville.
“One of the main things I gathered from this program is how important communication is within an organization,” said Ellis. “If there is not good communication, people are going to be lost and confused. They might even feel left out. Communication was a part of every single course I was in. You have to be a good communicator to be a good leader. Everything I learned about active listening skills, verbal skills, body language…I really took that in and I’m trying to make sure I am putting that into the work I am doing right now.”
With her degree in hand, Payne has some advice for others with aspirations to pursue graduate study.
“Balancing a master’s program with other responsibilities can be challenging, but it’s important to prioritize and manage your time effectively,” said Payne. “I’ve found that setting realistic goals, staying organized and communicating openly with your support network can make all the difference. It’s also crucial to give yourself grace…acknowledge your progress and celebrate small wins along the way.”
Learn more about the ATU Master of Arts degree in organizational leadership and learning at www.atu.edu/degrees/graduate/organizationaldevelopment-learning.php.
