History of the Leadership Development Institute (LDI)

History of the Leadership Development Institute

The Training Subcommittee of the Quality of Worklife Coordinating Group conducted a comprehensive needs assessment on campus, consisting of focus groups, interviews of supervisors and executives at varying levels of the University, and group surveys. The group also conducted research through a literature review and a best-practices and peer benchmarking survey. Data collected by the subcommittee indicated that the University suffers in numerous, ongoing, tangible ways by the lack of well trained and effective management.

The result of the campus needs assessment was a consistent and thorough set of core competencies required for successful management and leadership at the University of Maryland. The focus of any development program will be to develop and instill these competencies in University employees.

The Training Subcommittee proposed the establishment of the University of Maryland Leadership Institute. The focus of the Institute is to provide high quality, innovative training and development, comparable to what is offered at peer institutions, to UM managers and supervisors.

The goal of the Institute is to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of the University, by enhancing the management and leadership skills of our personnel. Its overarching purpose is to support the strategic enhancement of the University by developing the core competencies and skills in campus leaders.

The model for the Institute is a three tier program, based on programs currently used by aspirational and peer institutions, in addition to industry best practices. The three levels of programs are interdependent and complementary; the core competencies are pervasive and reinforced throughout each level. Coordination and the highest quality offerings are essential to establish and maintain credibility and focus.

In Summer 2001, the Foundations of Leadership pilot program was launched. Nineteen supervisors from various campus organizations participated in the pilot. Their feedback shaped the final program structure and content.

In October 2001, the Administrative Council approved funding to support the ongoing implementation of the Foundations of Leadership program.