HOW LONG IS THE PROGRAM? 

The DSM Leadership Institute takes just over one year to complete. Participants will go through the program with a “cohort” of other motivated participants. Each program is divided into eight modules that cover a variety of applicable leadership topics. These modules will be presented over the course of four off-site workshops. Typically, two modules will be covered at each off-site workshop.

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WHO IS PRESENTING? 

We are gathering together industry and leadership experts from around the country.

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WHAT IS EXPECTED OF ME? IS THERE HOMEWORK? 

Yes, there are expectations for participants. These include:

• Prioritizing in-person attendance at each of the off-site workshops

• Reading a book (provided) associated with each module and participating in weekly online discussions or assignments designed to apply the lessons, principles and concepts connected with each module

• Complete a final capstone project

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WHAT IS THE CAPSTONE PROJECT? 

Each participant is required to complete a final capstone project by the end of the course. This project will be shared in the form of a 20-minute presentation to fellow cohort members during the final in-person workshop.  The idea is to lean into one particular area of interest connected with the leadership program that has benefited you and could potentially be beneficial to fellow staff members and Divine Savior as a whole.

 

Participants will choose their topic and propose a plan of action to find the best outcomes. Scholarships are available to assist with research and potential travel.

 

The capstone project is not meant to be a burden, but a chance to use your imagination to dream up and pursue an area of interest. You might be interested in classroom management and develop a project that includes interviewing master teachers who exemplify exceptional classroom management skills. You might also be interested in learning more about developing a great team and working with a local school who does this well in order to learn more and develop a cohesive plan for assembling teams. Any project that develops your leadership skills and interests you is a possibility for further exploration.

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HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE IN A COHORT? 

Each cohort will have approximately 16 participants. We feel this is the ideal size to encourage participation and promote a variety of experiences.

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DO I HAVE TO ATTEND EACH IN-PERSON MEETING? 

Yes, participants are expected to attend all off-site workshops. Potential participants are encouraged to look at the proposed program dates carefully before applying.

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HOW MUCH DOES THE PROGRAM COST? 

Because of generous donations and partnerships, there is no cost to participants. This includes transportation, accommodations, program registration, materials and most meals while attending program events.

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WHAT IF I APPLY AND DON'T GET IN? 

Because of the great opportunity that comes with participating in the leadership program, we fully expect to have more applications than seats available. However, this is an ongoing program, so applications for upcoming cohorts will open again each December.

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WHO CAN APPLY FOR THE PROGRAM? 

The DSM Leadership Institute is open to all Divine Savior staff and employees who meet

the following criteria:

• You have one year of experience at Divine Savior completed and three years of professional experience

• You have the time and energy to attend four off-site workshops, complete assignments, follow-up reading/discussion and a final capstone project 

• You exemplify Divine Savior's Core Values​