Nicole M. Bertram-Secor, Assistant Director Marketing,
University Marketing and Communication, who received her Management
Certificate this year, had this to say: I have worked in
other companies and have never been given the opportunity to
participate in classes like these offered here at St. John’s. [The
Certificate Program] allowed me to set a goal…to work towards. [In
my position] I work with diverse clientele on a daily basis. The
PFP workshop allowed me to incorporate such areas as Diversity
Awareness, Time Management and Successful Presentation Skills in
the day-to-day workplace. The sequence not only enhanced my
presentation skills and time management (I write out a to-do list
every day), it made me more aware of my own actions. To give an
example, I dreaded the Successful Presentation class. I tend to get
extremely nervous when I am in front of a large group and look only
at the Exit sign in the back of the room. The presentation class,
which ended up being my favorite, helped me to get over a fear of
speaking in front of a group. It taught me how to speak more
effectively. It is also a great way to meet and interact with
fellow coworkers.
Sawanee Khongsawatwaja, Associate Dean, Administration and
Fiscal Affairs, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences who
received a Management Certificate, admitted: I
joined the St. John’s family in December of 2010, replacing my
predecessor, who was a member of this close-knit family for over a
decade. It was a challenge in itself to replace someone that is
well-liked, well-respected, not to mention, she was a nun. I knew I
had some big shoes to fill… I wanted to be a leader who not only
can lead by doing things the right way but the St. John’s way, as
well. But I also want to be …a leader who can contribute to the
core values, mission and vision of this new family AND be a
messenger of what St. John’s represents. The trainings that I
received did just that and pointed me in the right direction.
Sawanee also shared some advice for employees …[T]here are many
people here at St. John’s willing to help you, so don’t be afraid
to ask for help when you need it. They are your resources, use
them. Second, we as employees can continue to develop
professionally, and these skills can be transferable to any future
endeavors.
Natalie Maio, Associate Director of Leadership Development
in the Division of Student Affairs, who received a Management
Certificate, reflected on her journey: Participating in
professional development programs has enhanced my St. John’s
experience over the years. Taking courses that are offered by HR
has been a great opportunity for me to get to know and understand
the internal workings and expectations of the University and my
role as a supervisor. From learning how to hire the best,
coach for excellent performance, and manage for success, the
workshops helped enhance my knowledge and performance for being a
successful Manager. I also have appreciated the opportunity to meet
other employees throughout the Institution from all three campuses
and to listen to their successes and challenges along the
way.
Fannina Plessa, Academic Support Assistant III, College of
Professional Studies, who received her Staff Certificate,
wrote: The Training and Development Program has taught me to
better understand my work ethics and to improve student engagement.
Working in a Catholic University has instructed me to combine the
Vision Statement and the six Core Values of the University with
this program.