SPJ FIU Attends The Ted Scripps Leadership Institute Conference

By Kathleen Devaney

SPJ-FIU sent three of its members to Atlanta on Feb. 27 to participate in the Ted Scripps Leadership Institute, which was open to Region III Society of Professional Journalists members. Kathleen Devaney, the SPJ-FIU president, Alexis Fernandez, the vice-president and Jasmine Sias Richardson, the treasurer, graduated with much more than just a certificate at the end of their leadership training. The three chapter leaders learned important tips about how to work together as an executive board, realizing that each individual brings a different leadership style to the table. Participants of the Leadership Institute had to take the DISC personality profile test. Devaney scored with a “conscientious” personality type, meaning that she likes to work carefully within her leadership role to ensure accuracy and success. Fernandez and Richardson found out they were “influential” leaders who like to articulate their ideas clearly, while creating a motivational atmosphere for the chapter. All three members agree that the test results were “right on the mark.” Other activities within the Institute included learning quick facts about the Society on a national level, as well as hearing ideas from the other chapters that were represented about programming, fundraising and membership retention. The Leadership Institute was short, but it was well worth the trip! Devaney, Fernandez and Richardson are now even more inspired to continue on the path to being named SPJ Student Chapter of the Year for 2015!