LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM 2013-2015

ACTIVITY REFLECTIVE SUMMARY

ACTIVITY: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U
(Highlight or Circle the letter corresponding to the Activity)

ACTIVITY TOPIC: Attend College Budget Hearings

PARTICIPANTS NAME: Dana L. Sawyer
1. What were the significant learning points for you in this activity?
I attended the November Budget Hearing and found it to be engaging and enlightening. I
have been to Budget Hearings of other agencies and especially enjoyed DTCC's because
it is clear that the instituition is well-respected and relevant to the state. The presentation
was concise, yet full of detail and captured what DTCC is all about. It was good to hear
what other areas of the College are doing and it is indeed impressive. I also attended the
College JFC Hearing on 2/18/14. The information presented was slightly different, but
still articulated our successes, goals and needs. The JFC Committee is clearly pleased
with how DTCC stays relevant and effective in meeting students' needs. They
commented on how well we listen to the community and business to determine next
courses, how well we gather external monies to fund programs and services and how
connected we remain to the state's overall needs. I attended the Bond Hearing on 3/5/14
as well and found it to be just as informational. The Committee's questions centered on
how we capitalize on state funds, maximizing its contribution with other monies and how
we measure our successes relative to graduation and articulation rates. An interesting
discussion ensued that demonstrated once again our commitment to helping students
graduate and do well, while removing as many barriers to their success as possible.

2. Which leadership characteristic(s) was/were enhanced and/or learned through this

activity? Explain.
I appreciated that the Budget Hearing was streamed on the College website and that is
unique to any state agency. Transparency is indeed important to ensuring open and
consistent communication, and streaming the presentation is a great way to make sure
that the DTCC story is told. Leadership includes being a good communicator and
creating an environment of openness and integrity. One thing that Dr. George hit home
in the presentations was how we are accountable for dollars that we receive - that we are
2013-2015

responsive, respectful and relevant. It is absolutely necessary for any leader to be good
stewards of any monies received, whether it is state, federal or private funds.
Communicating our successes, challenges and how we deliver quality and excellence
goes a long way to staying transparent and accountable.

2013-2015