Kansas State University

After taking a break following its successful debut in the spring, the Building Next-Gen Leadership Series will pick up again Sept. 24-26 with its third workshop, Communication: The Art of Listening and Asking Questions. 

The latest workshop is one of three that will be offered this fall, followed by three in the spring. The series, which launched in April, teaches leadership concepts and develops community, especially around the university's Next-Gen K-State strategic plan.  Any employee who aspires to lead, regardless of position or title, is invited to participate. 

The September workshop will be offered three times to reach as many employees as possible — two in-person sessions on the Manhattan campus and one virtual for employees who can't attend in person.  Registration is required. 

Workshop description: To create change around the many challenges and opportunities we find ourselves facing, so much comes down to effective communication. And to communicate effectively, we must be able to listen. This workshop will offer skills and practice to enhance your ability to truly hear what another person has to say. Additionally, we will build your capacity around asking intentional questions that leave you wanting to hear another person's answer. Join us as we explore what it really means to be curious to solve our toughest challenges and become better communicators. 

Virtual session
Tuesday, Sept. 24 
3:30-5 p.m. 

In-person session 
Wednesday, Sept. 25
8:30-10 a.m.
Kedzie Hall, Room 106
Light refreshments provided 

In-person session 
Thursday, Sept. 26
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Justin Hall, Room 109
Lunch provided 

The series will be facilitated by Amanda Cebula, adjunct instructor at K-State's Staley School of Leadership and former director of project and business development at the Kansas Leadership Center, where she co-authored the book "Your Leadership Edge: Tools and Strategies for When Everyone Leads." She received her bachelor's degree in communication studies from K-State, with minors in music and leadership studies. She also earned a master's degree in management and leadership from Webster University.  

The series has been popular with employees, with more than 550 participating in the first two workshops: Courage: Leading Starts With You and Impact: Closing the Gap. It is the first phase of Human Resources' leadership development strategic initiative, which aligns with the university's goal to build and sustain our workforce. The second phase will involve a professional development needs assessment, and the third phase will focus on developing and piloting new programming.