vision and leadership

“We all do better when we all do better.”
-Paul Wellstone

My leadership journey began with a program through University of Wisconsin-Extension. Leadership Academy was two years of reading and discussing current leadership theory. We also met with leaders from around the state from private, public, and nonprofit organizations to learn about their practices.

Since then, I have continued my study of leadership, because it became clear to me that leadership was not a skill you could master and then be done - it is instead a practice, like exercise or meditation.

Sometimes my role as a designer allows me to lead a team, and sometimes I am just leading by example. To lead means to take responsibility for the outcome no matter what your role is.

Every project I take on requires relationship building, mindfulness, strategy, and patience. Below are the skills I practice, and examples of how I continue to learn.

Each project is an opportunity to give of oneself to both the mission of the organization and to your colleagues. Success means your team is performing well, developing skills, is engaged, and feels valued. In Servant Leadership, we all have the opportunity to lead, from wherever we are in our organization or our communities. “Servant Leadership” believes “A servant-leader focuses primarily on the growth and well-being of people and the communities to which they belong and helps people develop and perform as highly as possible."

My work, and who I am at work, are reflections not only of me but of the organization I work for. Stewardship is making sure that my actions represent the values of our workplace. I practice stewardship when I proactively step in to fill a need, when I present myself professionally with clients and colleagues, and when I treat others around me with respect. Stewardship requires being present and mindful, listening, and being aware of how I can contribute to my workplace in ways outside simply producing a product.

"It was great working with you Jen. You're one of the most thorough folks I've ever come in contact with. You ask direct and logical questions and your overall work ethic is amazing."

"If you ever get tired of doing design work, can I hire you as our Project Manager? You have a gift!"

"Andy just saw the piece and really liked it. He really enjoyed the graphics and said they made the story! Good job and thanks for rushing to get them done!"

"It has been great working with you. I have always appreciated your thoughtfulness and methodical approach to problem solving.'

"I thus nominate Jennifer R Hadley for a Nobel prize in Rocking Chemical Graphics!"