Columbus State University’s Servant Leadership Program: A Phenomenological Study

Location

Hamilton A

Proposal Track

Research Project

Session Format

Presentation

Abstract

This phenomenological study examined the experiences of participants of the Columbus State University Servant Leadership Program. Sixteen years since inception, the program continues to serve the institution and the community; however, while certain data had been collected every year, there had not been a broad examination or analysis of this data. The primary data collection method was in-depth focus groups with supplemental interviews. The research resulted in the examination of three major categories, along with several themes under each category, which emerged out of the experiences shared by the participants: 1) A high level of importance placed on relationships within and among the program; 2) Numerous overarching program aspects such as sense of personal growth and skills sets for success were recognized by participants; 3) Specific program components such as mentoring and self-awareness materialized as essential for perceive participant growth. The experiences associated with the participants in this study serve as a framework for discussion about the sustainability of the Servant Leadership Program. Recommendations are offered for current program faculty, university administration, and further research. The recommendations range from practical applications to suggestions for future research topics. This study was finished in December of 2015.

Keywords

higher education, servant leadership, leadership development, mentoring

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Oct 7th, 1:45 PM Oct 7th, 3:00 PM

Columbus State University’s Servant Leadership Program: A Phenomenological Study

Hamilton A

This phenomenological study examined the experiences of participants of the Columbus State University Servant Leadership Program. Sixteen years since inception, the program continues to serve the institution and the community; however, while certain data had been collected every year, there had not been a broad examination or analysis of this data. The primary data collection method was in-depth focus groups with supplemental interviews. The research resulted in the examination of three major categories, along with several themes under each category, which emerged out of the experiences shared by the participants: 1) A high level of importance placed on relationships within and among the program; 2) Numerous overarching program aspects such as sense of personal growth and skills sets for success were recognized by participants; 3) Specific program components such as mentoring and self-awareness materialized as essential for perceive participant growth. The experiences associated with the participants in this study serve as a framework for discussion about the sustainability of the Servant Leadership Program. Recommendations are offered for current program faculty, university administration, and further research. The recommendations range from practical applications to suggestions for future research topics. This study was finished in December of 2015.