At Drexel and MCP Hahnemann Universities, the classroom is not just for our students. Our faculty and administrators frequently participate in conferences, seminars and other programs that help them build upon and enhance their teaching and management skills.

Recently, the University initiated the Drexel Leaders program, an intensive, three-day series designed to build skills through collaboration, interaction and coaching. This first offering of Drexel Leaders, held in Behrakis Grand Hall, was a pilot for selected faculty and administrators, including department and program directors and associate vice presidents. Twenty-six staff members took part in the sessions and received certificates for their participation. My thanks to all who attended and provided input. I am pleased that the pilot program was successful, and will now be available to administrators and faculty members from Drexel and MCP Hahnemann later this spring.

Drexel Leaders is presented by the Office of Administrative Services and led by Dr. Phyllis Lewis, senior associate vice president for administrative services. The program presents scenarios and suggestions to help staff develop an understanding of their roles as managers, ranging from legal issues to how to avoid potential difficulties in communicating work priorities.

One of the program’s most important features is that it brings together managers, administrators and other key personnel from Drexel and MCP Hahnemann, many of whom might not have an opportunity to interact with each other, to participate in breakout and brainstorming sessions. This sharing of ideas and solutions across both universities is important as we work together to expand research and academic collaborations between Drexel and MCP Hahnemann. Please join me in thanking Anthony T. Caneris, senior vice president for student life and administrative services, and Dr. Lewis for their efforts and commitment to improving Drexel and MCP Hahnemann management.

Drexel Leaders is now accepting applications for its next session. The program is open to faculty and staff who are supervisors or managers. Those who wish to participate must apply and be nominated by senior management. I encourage all who are eligible to take part in this worthwhile program to contact Dr. Lewis for more information.

C.R. "Chuck" Pennoni Interim President