LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM 2013-2015

ACTIVITY REFLECTIVE SUMMARY

ACTIVITY: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U
(Highlight or Circle the letter corresponding to the Activity)

ACTIVITY TOPIC: Be a Mentor

PARTICIPANTS NAME: Dana L. Sawyer
1. What were the significant learning points for you in this activity?
I was a Field Instructor for a Masters of Social Work (MSW) intern from Delaware State
University for nine months of the academic year. The student had just completed his
Bachelors Degree in Social Work and was looking for a new learning opportunity and
was very pleased to be placed in CCP. My commitment to him was to plan activities and
learning experiences, meet with him at least 1 1/2 hours a week and to advance his
education around social work practices. I have been a Field Instructor before, but each
student is different and have divergent needs. Treating them with respect and making
time for them, as you would any other person in the office was important and to have
'teachable moments' when the opportunity arose was a helpful practice. Teaching and
mentoring others helps me grow as a person and leader, and demonstrates my
commitment to supporting the field as a seasoned professional. You have to give back as
part of your community to help others learn and be successful.

2. Which leadership characteristic(s) was/were enhanced and/or learned through this

activity? Explain.
Being a leader means mentoring others to become better professionals and citizens. One
has to lead by example and be a participatory manager to grow an organization. Staff
have to feel you have 'skin in the game' and are there for them when the times are tough.
Being a role model is important, and mentoring others in turn helps me be successful in
my leadership role. You can find leaders at every level of the organization, but you may
have to nurture some to become future leaders. With tenacity and perseverance, a good
leader can bring others along by mentoring and coaching. Actions oftentimes speak
louder than words.

2013-2015

2013-2015