Reflective Leadership Reflection

This artifact titled Heart*Home*Head*Hope was submitted for ELPS 419:

Leadership in Higher Education for our “Express” project, which required us to think

creatively on the concept of leadership and to capture our emerging leadership

philosophy. I genuinely appreciated this opportunity to craft a leadership theory that I

could see myself within and that relates directly to my own experiences and values. I am

extremely proud of this, as I believe it speaks to who I am in a genuine way. As I read

back through this assignment, I am proud of my demonstrated growth and am grateful for

my ELPS 419 community, who made my learning experience last semester incredibly

meaningful. While this artifact elicits some feelings of sadness and pain, it is grounded

in hope and gratitude and will serve as a source of motivation in the future.

In regards to our reflective leadership program learning outcome, I believe this

piece demonstrates the following competencies: the ability to listen, to lead, and to

empower others to lead; an appreciation for the role that reflective leadership should play

in promoting a just and ethical society, and the development of attitudes and skills related

to life long learning and the ability critical self-assess. My evolving leadership theory is

grounded in the power of listening, leading from within, and recognizing leadership

capabilities within oneself and within others. In recognizing the power of relationship

building and coalition building, I strive to be an active listener and to value the stories

and lived experiences of others. Through critical hope, coalition building, and acting

intentionally within my own spheres of influence, I aim to promote social justice in a way

that is authentic to me. At the core of my evolving theory is a motivation to engage in a

life long journey of critical self-reflection. In practicing constant reflection and meaning

making now, I am confident I can maintain this life long commitment.

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