Sunday, May 2, 2021 (Day 122)
New Meditation Music for the week: Touching Calm: Liquid Mind (7:44) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlUKEoBgois
Question: What have the highlights of your career path been up to this point?
Answer: The first highlight that comes to mind was when I received Golden Key International Honour Society’s International Advisor of the Year Award. It was the first time that I realized that my work isn’t about the fame, rewards, and recognition – it was about the impact that I had on the students I worked with. When I was on stage to receive the award, the award presenter read my nomination letter, sharing how much she felt I was her dad away from home. I literally broke down and cried on the stage because it was such a heartwarming letter. Right then, I realized that my priorities were screwed up. I was so wrapped up in myself and what in it for me that I lost sight of the fact that my work is about impacting the lives of others. And that was such a defining moment for me. Even today, I do Life Design Catalyst work not for me, but to impact the students in my classes and the Tribe that uses the work in a variety of ways. The only reason why I apply for awards these days is that I feel like I need the outside recognition in order to justify my work and my job. As an example, our Life Design Catalyst Group Coaching Program was seen as a best Advising Practice by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation AND the National Academic Advising Association – and UNCG still won’t embrace the work. Yet, they will implement a variety of student success and coaching programs on campus, but won’t even put me on a committee on student success. So, I have to go outside my institution to promote the work, get feedback/thoughts on what works and what doesn’t work, and find ways to make it better. Yes, I do it within my classes in the School of HHS, but I also outside entities to provide thoughts on what works and what doesn’t work. I can tell you that I am grading my HHS125, HHS135, and ENT250/HHS250 (cross-listed) courses right now – and it’s gratifying to hear the students share how much they appreciate doing Life Design Catalyst work because it’s helping them get clear about their personal and/or professional goals, especially the non-traditional students. Anyway, that’s one LONG answer to one highlight! There are many more, but that’s the one that stands out most, since that event was most transformational for me.
The Dream Dean 