Leadership competencies

New for 2024! This year we’re introducing Volunteer Leadership Competencies to make your time back on campus even more valuable. These competencies provide a framework from which you can build distinct skill sets. Each conference session is designed with these competencies in mind, so as you register for the weekend, you can use these competencies as a guide to make the VIP Leadership Conference the most meaningful experience for you.

Leading by example

My individual actions are a direct reflection of University values. 

Inspire
Have organizational knowledge; take action / embrace risk; be adaptable / flexible.

(Act with) Integrity
Take responsibility; follow through on promises.

Innovate
Embrace other’s ideas; be creative.

Mentor
Lead others with time, experience, and expertise.

Leading others

My fellow community members are invested in their own development and in that of the community.

Coach
Empower volunteers and boards / committees; develop others.

Collaborate
Build and maintain relationships and coalitions; negotiate / influence.

Communicate
Be an effective oral and written communicator; demonstrate effective listening.

Champion
Recognize volunteers; advocate for your board / committee and fellow volunteers.

Leading a community

My community provides a unique and meaningful contribution in support of university priorities.

Imagine
Envision / strategize.

Build
Build a talented, diverse board / committee; build a strong, impactful volunteer experience.

Deliver
Be decisive; be fiscally responsible; manage projects.

Reflect
What has the community learned? What do you want to share?

Leading with equity

My service represents the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion, where individuals feel empowered, respected, and valued in our collective pursuit of Meliora: “Ever Better.”

Authenticity
Actions are congruent with values, desires, and spirit.

(Act with) Cultural humility
Openness, self-awareness, egoless, supportive interactions, self-reflection and critique.

Connect (with diverse communities)
Create space for and listen to diversity of values, lived experiences, and perspectives.

Accountability
Create a culture of ownership and commitment to learn with vulnerability.