1. Sponsored by The Laurence W. Levine Foundation

2. With T. Alan Hurwitz California State University, Fresno May 11, 2013

3.  A successful leader evolves while an unsuccessful leader regresses.  The process of becoming an effective leader takes you through a huge range of learning and hands-on experiences starting with a small role, gaining experience at every level on your way to the next leadership role. Leadership roles take place anywhere and anytime: school, work, non- profit organization, community work, and special projects.

4.  Effective leadership involves listening more than speaking.  “Change happens by listening and then starting a dialogue with the people who are doing something you don’t believe is right.” by Jane Goodall

5.  Before a leader makes a hard decision, s/he should consult with all concerned people, giving each person an opportunity to share his/her thoughts.

6.  When a leader is ready to change jobs, s/he must not “run away” to another job opportunity. S/he must be secure and doing well in his/her current job before s/he branches out in search of the next fulfilling. Through the process of evolving and taking on more personally fulfilling jobs, s/he will be seen by others as a successful leader.

7.  During the process of working his/her way up and assuming more and more challenges in newer and more important jobs, the leader will need more specialized interpreters. The interpreters required to work successfully with a high ranking, more prominent leader are designated interpreters with very special skills for handling complex, high powered conversations.

8.  Team Building is an art of creative communication and special relationships.

9.  Constantly networking with people is an investment in leadership. It gathers new leadership opportunities.

10.  Badmouthing others stops professional development and stunts growth. In the same vein, never play a blame game.

11.  Giving credit to your team for successes and taking full responsibilities for failures is the surest way of being appreciated and valued by your colleagues, bosses, and the community.

12.  Confidentiality is a complicated issue good leaders struggle with. It is a major issue among professionals in our Deaf world.

13. ◦ Learn ◦ Enthusiasm ◦ Attitude ◦ Development ◦ Empathy ◦ Respect ◦ Satisfaction ◦ Honesty ◦ Involvement ◦ Patience

14.  T. Alan Hurwitz, President  Gallaudet University  Office of the President  800 Florida Ave, N.E.  Washington, D. C. 20002  Alan.hurwitz@gallaudet.edu