Leadership Development Institute (LDI)

Introduction

LDI is an intensive two week program especially for full time UK employees. During the Institute, you and a diverse group of employees will gain an in-depth understanding of how the University operates and is organized as it strives to meet strategic goals and objectives. You will explore opportunities for your professional growth and become part of a network of other professionals committed to UK's mission of teaching, research, and service.

UKadvance was created in response to recommendations from a UK ad hoc committee on the Status of Minorities and Women in 1990. LDI was developed specifically to help UK employees prepare for administrative and management opportunities as well as to retain talent within the University.

The first Institute was offered in 1992 and continues to be held every two years. Nearly 300 graduates have attended since the initial offering.

For news regarding the 2006 Institute, click here.

The LDI Advantage

UKadvance LDI offers a wide range of opportunities. You will be challenged to explore your capabilities, learn and expand new skills in leadership, and develop effective teams. You will also broaden your horizons by learning about the various colleges and departments within the University. You will network with fellow employees, attend competency-based workshops on and off campus, and learn about the inner workings of the University.

Whether you're interested in gaining a promotion by changing jobs within the University or growing within your current job, the UKadvance experience will benefit you. You will explore techniques and learn new skills for your personal and professional growth.

Networking is one of the most valuable benefits of the Institute in helping you to meet the challenges and goals of your job. Opportunities to meet and interact with various leaders within UK and the local community allow you to begin building relationships essential in developing your leadership potential.

After participating in the UKadvance LDI, you will return to your job with a renewed sense of energy and vitality for the partnership you have with the University.

Application Process

Any regular full-time employee at the University of Kentucky can apply for admission to the UKadvance Leadership Development Institute. You are especially encouraged to apply if at least one of the following characteristics describes you:

• You are highly motivated.
• You have unique skills and experience.
• You work in a service or support environment.
• You are an entry level professional employee.
• You are interested in continuing professional development.
• You are an hourly paid employee.

The application packet consists of:

• An application form.
• A one-page letter indicating why you would benefit from participating in the Institute, which includes your professional goals as well as any personal qualities and life achievements that you believe qualify you for admission to the Institute.
• Two references who can speak to the quality of your paid or volunteer work.
• Consent from your immediate supervisor.

An independent selection committee reviews applications and selects the employees who meet the standards for acceptance to the Institute. Many more qualify than are accepted; therefore, if you have applied before and were not selected, we strongly encourage you to reapply.

Upon Completion

One particularly exciting aspect of UKadvance LDI is that while the Institute may end after two weeks, the experience continues. Professional development workshops for all graduates are held once a quarter. These workshops are designed to give you skills that will enhance your work performance and serve to keep graduates in touch with one another to help build your UK network. In addition, you get to meet and interact with graduates from previous institutes.

Past graduates are called upon to assist with future UKadvance Institutes. Graduates work to pull together everything it takes to have a successful Institute – from the application to the closing recognition luncheon. You have a part in ensuring quality programs continue long after your two week experience is over.

The relationship with HR Training and Development (HR T&D) staff is an added bonus to your participation in UKadvance. HR T&D staff are always available to assist you with career planning, professional development, and other performance issues you may encounter.

A Word to Supervisors

As a supervisor, you may be wondering how you can spare one of your best workers for two entire weeks to attend the Leadership Development Institute. LDI is an investment in your employee, your department or unit, and the University. UKadvance graduates make better employees. They know much more about the University than they did before the program, and they know how to make the right contacts to get a job accomplished.

Graduates are more prepared to assume leadership roles and have a higher retention rate. They are more knowledgeable about the workings of UK and have a greater network throughout the University. Their value to you increases greatly in just two weeks. Show your support by investing in the employees you supervise. Encourage and allow participation in this special program.