In the MarchApril 2024 issue, Cynthia Costanzo, the executive director of UConn Recreation at the University of Connecticut, shares advice on preparing the next generation of leaders.
How are you preparing for the next generation of leaders?
CC: I believe the most effective strategy to prepare the next generation of leaders is to create opportunities in our work for developing leadership skills. No one becomes an effective manager or leader without practice and practice often includes failure. The next generation of leaders should be strategically coached through failure, development and success. Through coaching, the leader can provide guidance, mentorship and correction. Gradually, the future leader learns not only the hard and soft skills that are important for effective leadership, but additionally, they develop confidence, independence and strategic decision-making skills.
Why is this important to always keep at the forefront of your director role?
CC: An effective leader knows they’re more effective when surrounded by talented professionals. Teams accomplish more when they align strategically, share values and work collaboratively. A well-trained, initiative-taking staff produces better outcomes, and this is good for business.
What pieces of advice can you give when it comes to preparing the next generation of leaders?
CC: Meet them where they are. It’s important to understand the next generation of leaders may not share your values and their work priorities may not match yours. Identify your values and priorities, share this perspective, and most importantly, explain your rationale. The next step is to listen to your staff to understand their values, priorities and perspectives. This will allow you to assess strengths, weaknesses and needs, then inform what your staff requires to develop professionally. Meeting them where they are additionally helps the developing leader embrace the process.
The leaders of tomorrow need the leaders of today to guide them in how to achieve goals and to demonstrate effective role modeling to achieve success. The best way to develop the next generation of leaders is inspire trust, create vision, execute strategy and coach potential.
As a member of the Campus Rec Base Camp leadership team, a new event for aspiring directors, can you share how it came about?
CC: The idea for Base Camp was created at the 2023 Campus Rec Leadership Summit by a group of leaders who were sharing their challenges. The leaders realized they shared the same aspiration to elevate and mentor future leaders to develop their skills and gain professional confidence. They knew the skills that would be required for future leaders. They believed by working collaboratively, we could achieve a better outcome. Base Camp participants will have the opportunity to gain experience from a diverse group of leaders in the field of campus rec through an interactive, inclusive process and return to their campuses prepared to implement what they have learned.
What do you hope aspiring directors learn from Base Camp?
CC: Participants will learn tangible skills they can immediately utilize in their work. My goal is for all participants to return energized and prepared to assume new challenges, tasks and projects as they continue their professional development, guided by their leaders.
Do you have an aspiring director who would be perfect for Base Camp? If so, send your nomination to heather@peakemedia.com! It’s happening July 23-25, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland. Limited spots remain!
