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Educational Excellence

All our members were immersed in a whole different dimension of
leadership. The satisfaction of serving others in need was an opportunity to
bond and network with our fellow sisters in DKG International. It was the
contributions and donations that were received and distributed to communities,
schools, teachers, parents, and students that made our work worth doing. Today
the demands of the work are still evident in our communities.
This is but one example of how leaders of the Society pitch in when times get
rough in their communities. The scope of this assistance was international. Such
times offer additional opportunities for growth as leaders.

Thoughts on Leadership
In a reflection on why stepping into leadership roles is important, one longtime
member and experienced committee chair stated,
No one can reap the benefits of membership in any organization without
expanding one’s horizons and stepping beyond her comfort zone. Being
willing to serve in a leadership capacity is a way of “paying back” to the
group for all the ways the member has grown personally and professionally,
not to mention how one’s social circle has expanded. Many do not realize the
natural leadership skills that they have; it’s not until they are given (or take) the
opportunity to lead that these skills become more evident.
An additional recounting of a leadership opportunity extends the discussion:
I received a phone call one night out of the blue. It was from a member of
the state nominations committee. She asked if I was interested in putting my
name in for a state office. I was shocked! Apparently, someone had noticed my
work at the chapter level and felt I was needed at the state organization level. I
was definitely of the opinion that state officers were far more experienced and
capable than I. After much thought and consideration (with some advice from
others), I decided to put my name in on the slate of state officers. I have never
regretted taking this leadership step. My knowledge of the Society increased
exponentially. My relationships with members from throughout the world
have enriched my life. Most importantly, I have grown both personally and
professionally by my service. It all began with "testing the water" with my first
committee work at the chapter level.
Another leader who believes in the importance of showing the human side of
ourselves as leaders offers the following advice:
• Dare to be vulnerable and genuine. We all have shortcomings and fears.
• Be curious and discover the potential among your colleagues.
• Manifest the vision of a sustainable Society.
• Live here and now and enjoy the journey along the road to reach long-term goals.
• Encourage innovative ideas. Think outside the box!

Conclusion
We are all leaders! As stated in the Go-to-Guide for Chapter Members, “The
chapter president is responsible for encouraging chapter activities that develop the
leadership potential of each member.” This is where it all begins. Say "yes" to that
invitation to join a committee, present a program, or work on a project. Not only will
you grow as a leader, but you will also reap the benefits of your DKG membership.

58 · Volume 89-2