Talent Empowerment Program

Overview

The Talent Empowerment Program (TEP) is an eight-month career development opportunity designed for high-achieving, full-time staff in Student Affairs. It is specifically tailored for individuals in the early to mid-stages of their professional journey, aiming to promote personal and professional development while equipping them with the skills, perspectives, and knowledge necessary for leadership roles.

About

Through a cohort-based model, TEP fosters a structured, supportive, and collaborative environment, creating a sense of community, accountability, and shared growth among participants. The program includes six full-day sessions led by leaders in higher education, an end-of-year celebration, and up to two additional gatherings.

Eligibility and Commitment to Participation

  • An employee who works full-time with the DSA.
  • Has been employed with the DSA for at least one year.
  • Staff who excel in their day-to-day work as high performers.
  • Job positions that fall under the categories of coordinators, assistant directors, and associate directors or their equivalent.

We acknowledge that certain positions and titles can be interpreted differently. As a result, individuals in Director or Executive Director positions, or those with primary oversight of a Department (not a program area), are not qualified to take part.

*Selected participants are expected to attend all sessions. Applicants must obtain full permission from their supervisor to participate.

Potential Sessions

  • Tuesday in January 2025 (January 14, 2025)
  • Tuesday in February 2025 (February 11, 2025)
  • Tuesday in March 2025 (March 4th or 25th, 2025)
  • Tuesday in April 2025 (April 15, 2025)
  • Tuesday in May 2025 (May 13, 2025)
  • Tuesday in June 2025 (June 10, 2025)
  • July - Luncheon Discussion with Leadership (TBD)
  • August - Recognition and Certificate Event (TBD)

Learning Approach and Design

Participants selected for the program will be expected to review assigned materials and case studies in advance of each session and come prepared for in-depth discussions. Additionally, each session will feature an executive guest speaker from within the division, the local community, or our higher education partners, who will address current issues and emerging trends in higher education. Sessions are scheduled on select Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The Talent Empowerment Program admits a new cohort annually, with each cohort limited to 12-15 participants.

Sample topics include, but are not limited to:

  • A comprehensive look at the functions and duties of different departments within the Division of Student Affairs
  • Effective Strategies for Leadership and Management
  • Professional Growth and Career Progression
  • Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurial Thinking within Organizations
  • Navigating the Evolving Dynamics of Higher Education
  • The Intersection of Future Work Trends and Learning
  • Financial Planning and Budgeting Exercise

Participant Outcomes

  • Leadership & Personal Growth: Participants will deepen their understanding of leadership traits, values, and personal purpose to enhance their professional effectiveness.
  • Strategic Career Development: Participants will create a career action plan that aligns leadership strengths with long-term goals and identifies growth opportunities.
  • Professional Networking: Participants will connect with decision-makers at FSU and other institutions, expanding their professional networks for career advancement.
  • Emerging Issues in Higher Education: Participants will explore critical and emerging issues with leaders, gaining skills to navigate evolving challenges in higher education.

Application Procedure

  1. ONLINE APPLICATION SUBMISSION:
    All prospective applicants are required to complete an application form.
  2. APPLICATION DEADLINE:
    The deadline for submitting applications is December 11, 2024. It is imperative that all materials, including the application and supervisor's letter of support, are received by this date to be considered.
  3. SELECTION PROCESS:
    Successful candidates will be chosen for participation after the application review. Those selected will be contacted directly with comprehensive information regarding the next steps.
  4. COMMITMENT TO PARTICIPATION:
    All chosen participants are expected to commit to attending the entirety of the Program.

We appreciate your interest in the program and are excited to receive your application. Should you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Darryl Lovett at dlovett@fsu.edu.