Merton C. Flom Leadership InSight™ Program

Under the leadership of Mert Flom, OD, PhD, twenty-eight optometrists, representing different segments of the profession met from 1991 to 1994 to consider the rapid changes taking place in Optometry. The focus of their discussions was to identify ways to deal with these changes proactively and effectively. Subsequently, the group recommended forming a leadership program. Dr Flom was not only an outstanding vision scientist, clinician and educator; he was also a visionary with a passion for leadership. With his passing in February 2010, the profession and the Academy lost a giant in optometry. In memory of him and his inspiration to us all, the Academy was proud to name the program in his honor. This year marks the twentieth year that Leadership InSight courses will be offered at our Annual Meeting.

FUNDAMENTALS OF LEADERSHIP – PART I: What is Leadership?
Wednesday, October 23, 8:00 am – 11:00 am
$50 fee (Students $10)

Instructors: Rick Weisbarth OD, FAAO; Barbara Caffery, OD, MS, FAAO; Muriel Schornack, OD, FAAO; Ray Pasko, BS, MBA; David Kirschen, OD, PhD, FAAO; Harue Marsden, OD, MS, FAAO; Julie Schornack, OD, MEd, FAAO

Regardless of position, everyone can benefit from learning about leadership and how to bring about change through leadership. Part I of this course will focus on the topics such as definitions of leadership, the differences between leadership and management, traits and characteristics of leadership, and using leadership to influence organizational culture. Part I of this course also discusses individual strengths and different leadership styles. Enrollees will also be mailed a workbook of pre-course readings and assignments. Enrollment is limited to 50 people.

FUNDAMENTALS OF LEADERSHIP – PART II: Putting Leadership into Action
Thursday, October 24, 8:00 am – 11:00 am
$50 fee (Students $10)

Instructors: Karla Zadnik, OD, PhD, FAAO; Sally Dillehay, OD, EdD, FAAO; Linda Casser, OD, FAAO; Steven Eyler, OD, FAAO

Building upon the foundation of Part I of this course, Part II will examine the real world aspects of leadership and how to put leadership into action. This course will focus on Kotter’s model of leadership and how to use it to establish a vision, align people to that vision, and motivate them to stay with the vision. The course will also include a discussion of how communication can be used to support leadership efforts. Enrollees will be mailed a workbook of pre-course readings and assignments. Note: Part I of this course is strongly recommended prior to taking Part II. If you have taken the Fundamentals of Leadership Course previously, Part II will also be a valuable refresher on how to actively practice leadership in everyday situations. Enrollment is limited to 50 people.

INTERMEDIATE LEADERSHIP COURSE: The Keys to Successful Mentoring
Thursday, October 24, 1:30 to 4:30 pm
$75 fee (Students $20)

Instructors: Bobby Griffin III, BBA, MBA; Katie L. Greiner, OD, MS, FAAO; Jeffrey J. Walline, OD, PhD, FAAO; Glenda Secor, OD, FAAO; Harue J. Marsden, OD, MS, FAAO

Mentoring focuses on the growth and development of future leaders as its outcome.  This three hour intermediate course is multifaceted; combining presentations, real life experiences and group discussion sessions. Emphasis will be placed on:  developing a frame work and model for successful coaching & mentoring, sharing keys to effectively working with and developing a mentee, and maximizing the effectiveness of the mentor / mentee relationship. Best practices of mentors and mentees will be shared. Enrollment is limited.  Taking “Fundamentals of Leadership” first is recommended but not required.
Enrollment is limited to 50 people.

We hope to see you at this year’s Leadership InSight™ courses!