To develop as leaders, individuals must understand, appreciate, and respect human differences. The same is true of teams: effective teamwork both requires and promotes an appreciation of differences. Collaboration among diverse colleagues helps maximize the team’s productivity and creates synergy.
As part of their civic leadership, group/organization leadership, and personal leadership components, participants in the Buck Rodgers Business Leadership Program examine issues and benefits inherent in forging a team of diverse individuals. Activities within these three areas are designed to increase awareness and appreciation for diversity, provide new insights, and help participants experience the synergies and richness of diversity, as well as the issues such differences may raise.
Because issues of diversity permeate every aspect of leadership, at least 15 of the 70 hours students earn across the three areas should be related to understanding and appreciating diversity. Participants should also address their personal experiences in learning about diversity in their small group presentation as they conclude the Leadership Program.
